SCALED: Substation in a cable for adaptable low-cost electrical distribution

Abstract

Modern power electronics meets medium voltage cables to create a high-density inline power conversion system for the grid of tomorrow. Global electricity networks face a mounting dual challenge: increased demand and higher risk. Rapid electrification, the accelerated rollout of renewables, and the surging energy appetite of data centers are all straining grid capacity. At the same time, climate change and geopolitical instability raise the stakes for security and resilience. Recent conflicts have highlighted the vulnerability of energy infrastructure during crises, while market volatility has underscored the urgency of building systems that can withstand disruptions. Together, these forces are driving unprecedented stress across transmission and distribution networks.