American Superconductor
American Superconductor Corporation (AMSC) is a U.S.-based company that specializes in advanced technology solutions for the electric power industry. The company was founded in 1987 and is headquartered in Ayer, Massachusetts. AMSC primarily focuses on the development and commercialization of systems utilizing superconducting materials and power electronics.
Core Areas of Business and Products:
Wind Energy:
- Wind Turbine Designs and Systems: AMSC provides complete wind turbine designs and systems solutions tailored to maximize efficiency and reliability in different environmental conditions. They supply electrical control systems for wind turbines, enhancing their performance and grid compatibility.
Grid Solutions:
- Grid Interconnection and Power Quality: The company develops products that improve the reliability and efficiency of electricity transmission and distribution. These include dynamic VAR (Volt-Ampere Reactive) compensators and other grid stabilization products.
- High Temperature Superconductor (HTS) Wire: AMSC manufactures advanced HTS wire, a key component for various grid applications, including the stabilization of electrical grids and the reduction of power losses.
Defense Technology:
- Ship Protection Systems: AMSC offers solutions for naval defense, including systems for degaussing (reducing the magnetic signature of naval vessels to prevent detection and targeting by magnetic mines and torpedoes).
Power Electronics:
- The company provides an array of power electronic solutions designed to manage and control electrical energy flow efficiently and reliably across various industrial and renewable energy applications.
Key Technologies:
- Superconductor Wire (Amperium®): AMSC's proprietary HTS wire technology is marketed under the brand name Amperium. This wire is pivotal for reducing energy losses in power grids and enhancing the performance of electrical equipment.
- D-VAR® Systems: These Dynamic VAR systems are designed to support grid stability and are used by utilities to regulate voltage levels continuously.
Global Reach and Innovation:
AMSC operates in multiple countries and collaborates with various international partners to bring its technologies to global markets. Its innovative approach and strong R&D capabilities have positioned the company as a leader in integrating superconducting technologies and advanced power electronics into practical, market-ready solutions.
Financial and Market Position:
As a publicly traded company listed on the NASDAQ under the ticker symbol "AMSC," American Superconductor has garnered attention from investors interested in cutting-edge technological advancements in renewable energy and grid solutions.
Challenges and Opportunities:
- Market Volatility: Like many technology and energy companies, AMSC faces challenges related to market fluctuations, regulatory changes, and competition.
- Growth Opportunities: Increasing demand for clean energy solutions, grid modernization, and efficient power distribution systems present significant growth opportunities for AMSC.
Overall, American Superconductor Corporation is a notable player in the energy technology sector, leveraging its expertise in superconducting materials and power electronics to drive advancements in renewable energy and electrical grid infrastructures.
- 978-842-3000
- www.amsc.com
- 978-842-3024
Products
High temperature superconductor (HTS) wire, HTS Ship Propulsion Motors, HTS Degaussing Coil systems, power systems and electronics, wind turbine engineering and design
Devens USA
64 Jackson Road
Devens MA 01434
USA
Devens MA 01434
USA
Maritime News
Maersk, Hapag-Lloyd: No immediate return to Red Sea
Two of the world's top shipping companies, Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd, said on Thursday they did not see an immediate return to Red Sea after the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel was announced.Both companies said they would be closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East and would return to the Red Sea once it was safe to do so."The agreement has only just been reached. We will closely analyze the latest developments and their impact on the security situation in the Red Sea," a Hapag-Lloyd spokesperson told Reuters."It is still too early to speculate about timing," a Maersk spokesperson said.
What Keeps Business Leaders Awake at Night?
Cyber, business interruption and natural catastrophes are the risks of most concern for businesses globally according to the Allianz Risk Barometer 2025 - as voted for by a record 3,778 risk management experts from 106 countries and territories.Cyber incidents (38% of responses, a record 7% points ahead) consolidates its position as the most important risk.The risk impact of new technologies and developments in artificial intelligence (AI) is a new entrant in the top 10 global risks at #10.Closely interlinked to cyber, business interruption is ranked #2 (31%), just ahead of another related risk, natural catastrophes at #3 (29%).Climate change is another standout result in 2025.
MOL and JERA Ink Charter for LNG Carrier Newbuild
Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) has signed a long-term charter contract for a newbuilding LNG carrier with a vessel operation management company funded by JERA.This is the eighth contract for LNG carrier signed with JERA. The vessel will be built at the Geoje Shipyard of Samsung Heavy Industries, and is scheduled for delivery in 2026.It will be 290 meters long, with a breadth of 45.8 meters. It will feature a membrane tank of 174,000 m3.The vessel will be managed by MOL and will transport LNG for JERA.
Pirates: More Guns, More Hostages
The ICC International Maritime Bureau (IMB) has reported an increase in the number of crew taken hostage or kidnapped in 2024.The IMB annual Piracy and Armed Robbery Report recorded 116 incidents against ships in 2024 compared to 120 in 2023 and 115 in 2022. It reveals that 94 vessels were boarded, 13 attempted attacks, six vessels hijacked and three fired upon.While the number of reported incidents in 2024 remains similar to those reported in 2023 and 2022, the number of crew taken hostage or kidnapped increased to 126 taken hostage in 2024 compared to 73 in 2023 and 41 in 2022. Twelve crew were reported kidnapped, compared to 14 in 2023 and two in 2022.
James Fishers Orders Four LNG Dual-Fuel Tankers
James Fisher and Sons has ordered four new LNG dual-fuel tankers from China Merchants Jinling Shipyard (Yangzhou) Dingheng as part of its ‘fleet of the future’ business strategy.The new tankers, which will carry oil products and IMO Class II chemicals, will have LNG dual-fuel propulsion capability, expected to help to reduce operational CO2 emissions and associated environmental impact over the long-term.A number of features that will add to the overall sustainability of the new builds have been carried over from recent additions to the company’s fleet, vessels Sir John Fisher and Lady Maria Fisher.