NKT production start of the SuedLink power cables is a key step in the green transition of Germany

NKT has started production of the 525 kV XLPE high-voltage DC (direct current) onshore cable system with a route length of approximately 750 km for the German SuedLink corridor. The power cables are being produced in Karlskrona, Sweden, and will be shipped to Germany for installation when completed.

“With the start of production, SuedLink is taking a big step towards the start of construction. We are happy about the news from Karlskrona - things are progressing!" said TenneT COO, Tim Meyerjürgens.

The SuedLink corridor comprises two power cable systems. NKT is responsible for the 2GW cable link which will be the world’s longest high-voltage DC underground power cable and run from Brunsbüttel in Schleswig-Holstein to Leingarten in Baden-Württemberg. The SuedLink line starts in Northern Germany where it connects to power from offshore wind farms and to the NordLink interconnector, which brings hydro power from Norway to Germany via a 525 kV high-voltage DC offshore power cable system also provided by NKT. Dr Werner Götz, CEO of TransnetBW, emphasised: “The awards to experienced cable manufacturers was a good decision. The fact that NKT is now starting production is a good signal for SuedLink and for the energy transition in Germany.”

The underground power cables are produced with a strong focus on sustainability. “Our two high-voltage production facilities in Karlskrona and Cologne operate on 100% green electricity. This way, we ensure low CO2 emissions in the manufacturing process of the power cable systems,” said Alexander Kara, CEO of NKT.

The SuedLink project is a turnkey order for NKT meaning that in addition to production and delivery, NKT is also responsible for installation of the underground power cables as well as the final high-voltage test of the cable system.