Korea Electric Power Corporation Signs MOU for World's First Superconducting Power Grid for Data Centers.

Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEP) signed a MOU with LS Cable & System and LS Electric to build the world's first superconducting power grid for data centers. The project aims to expand power supply to urban areas without new substations, reducing installation space and enhancing energy efficiency. KEP will oversee technical verification and regulatory coordination, while LS Cable & System and LS Electric will design and produce superconducting cables and provide power equipment.

Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) has entered into a significant partnership with LS Cable & System and LS Electric to develop the world’s first superconducting power grid specifically designed for data centers. The memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed on July 10 aims to revolutionize the power infrastructure industry by leveraging the zero-resistance property of superconducting materials [1].

The project, which is expected to become a turning point for the next-generation power infrastructure industry, seeks to address the increasing power demand driven by the rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) and data center industries. Unlike conventional power grids, a superconducting power grid can transmit large-capacity power even at low voltages, enabling the expansion of power supply in urban areas without the need for new substations [1].

The collaboration involves KEPCO overseeing the technical verification of the superconducting system and regulatory coordination. LS Cable & System will handle the design and production of superconducting cables, while LS Electric will provide superconducting fault current limiters and other power equipment [1].

The superconducting fault current limiter is a key component that enhances operational stability by immediately interrupting fault currents, thereby preventing equipment damage and data loss. This technology will significantly reduce installation space and enhance energy efficiency, making it advantageous for cutting construction costs and improving public acceptance [1].

The project is anticipated to establish a standard model for the superconducting power grid, gradually expand technology development and demonstration, and thereby vitalize the industrial ecosystem. The collaboration also plans to actively pursue expansion into overseas markets in the future [1].

KEPCO's stock has shown impressive growth in 2025, with a year-to-date increase of over 100% [2]. While the stock offers potential for investment, the company acknowledges that certain AI stocks may offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk [2].

The development of superconducting power grids is a significant advancement in the field of power applications of superconductors. Superconductors have been discovered for over a century but have only recently begun to mature and be integrated into various applications such as energy, transportation, healthcare, and industrial manufacturing [3].

The collaboration between KEPCO, LS Cable & System, and LS Electric marks a significant milestone in the utilization of superconducting technology for data centers, highlighting the potential for future advancements in the power infrastructure industry.

References:
[1] https://www.businesskorea.co.kr/news/articleView.html?idxno=246842
[2] https://finance.yahoo.com/news/korea-electric-power-corporation-kep-210549213.html
[3] https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40766-025-00071-6