High School Power from global loop power cable ?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the concept of utilizing a global loop power cable to harness energy from the Earth's magnetic field. The idea suggests that a power transmission line, potentially encircling the equator or the Arctic Circle, could generate power from magnetic storms and ionospheric currents. However, significant challenges exist, particularly in voltage and current regulation, as the Earth's magnetic field variations would largely cancel out due to the loop's orientation. An alternative proposal includes creating an East-West tunnel to enhance the loop's ability to capture magnetic field variations.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electromagnetic theory
  • Familiarity with power transmission systems
  • Knowledge of voltage and current regulation techniques
  • Basic concepts of Earth's magnetic field dynamics
NEXT STEPS
  • Research electromagnetic induction principles in power generation
  • Explore advanced voltage regulation techniques for power systems
  • Investigate the effects of magnetic storms on electrical systems
  • Study tunneling methods for underground power transmission
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Engineers, physicists, and researchers interested in renewable energy solutions, electromagnetic applications, and innovative power transmission methods.

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Just a thought ... Given that the earths magnetic field has a stream of small changes, would a power transmission line forming a loop around the equator generate useful power ? Not exactly economic of course. Maybe just circumnavigating the arctic circle would be enough ?
 
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Magnetic storms with ionospheric currents would dominate the loop output. One big problem would be in regulating the voltage and current.

Since the Earth's field passes in the same direction, both above and below the loop, most of the field variation would cancel.

Maybe find an East-West tunnel through a hill, then wind a loop through the tunnel and over the hill. That will pick up variations in the Earth's field.
 

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