Capacitively coupled cables for transmission and distribution of electrical power

Capacitive Transmission Cable (CTC) is a novel technology for transmission and distribution (T&D) of electrical

power. It offers a number of important advantages over conventional cable that arise from the fundamental

difference in the way that electrical energy propagates within the cable; because of the multi-layer structure,

and in contrast to a conventional conductor, CTC supports a transverse electromagnetic (TEM) mode, which

alters the capacitive coupling with ground, enabling lower-loss underground and subsea AC cables.

The technology has been demonstrated at voltages up to 600V, showing that we can achieve power

transmission via capacitive coupling with a power factor very close to unity. This project will carry out a

systematic exploration of the design space in collaboration with Brunel University using state of the art

simulation techniques, and will develop fabrication techniques in collaboration with Custom Designed Cables

and TWI Industries. This will enable us to design, manufacture and test samples at a range of operating

voltages, powers and link distances.