NKT has officially kicked off the installation of a groundbreaking 518-kilometer high-voltage direct current (HVDC) power cable system for TenneT’s ambitious SuedLink project. This massive undertaking is not just a technical feat; it’s a vital link between northern Germany’s renewable energy sources and the industrial heartlands of the south. The 525kV cables are set to transform how energy flows across the country, and TenneT’s chief operations officer, Tim Meyerjürgens, has made it clear: “With the cable pull-in, SuedLink is becoming a reality.” This statement encapsulates the excitement surrounding a project that promises to reshape Germany’s energy landscape.
The SuedLink project, with an estimated price tag of around $11 billion, is a cornerstone of Germany’s Energiewende, a comprehensive strategy aimed at transitioning to sustainable energy sources. As the first 37 kilometers of the 700-kilometer route are pulled in, it’s evident that the project is no longer just a vision on paper—it’s a tangible reality. The implications are immense. By connecting renewable energy sources such as onshore and offshore wind farms to industrial regions, SuedLink is set to enhance energy security and stability across Germany.
NKT’s role in this project is pivotal, as they will deliver two sections of power cables and accessories, forming part of a dual power cable system ordered by both TenneT and Transnet BW. This collaboration highlights the importance of partnerships in realizing large-scale energy projects. The installation also features a custom-engineered solution to navigate the challenges posed by the Elbe River and a salt mine, showcasing the innovative approaches necessary for such a complex endeavor.
Set to boast a capacity of 2x2GW, the SuedLink cable system is on track to become one of the longest underground HVDC power cable links in the world. It will not only facilitate the distribution of energy generated from renewable sources but also integrate hydro power from Norway through the NordLink interconnector, which itself utilizes a 525kV HVDC power cable system supplied by NKT. This interconnectedness is crucial for achieving a balanced and reliable energy supply, especially as Europe grapples with the challenges of energy transition.
The timeline is ambitious, with the corridor expected to be fully operational by 2028. NKT’s executive vice-president, Lukas Sidler, emphasized the significance of this undertaking, stating, “The start of the installation is a major milestone in the ambitious SuedLink power cable project.” His pride in NKT’s role underscores the company’s commitment to executing this historic project, leveraging their expertise to build the energy infrastructure that Germany desperately needs.
As the energy sector evolves, projects like SuedLink will serve as blueprints for future developments. They demonstrate the power of innovation, collaboration, and strategic planning in addressing the pressing need for sustainable energy solutions. The stakes are high, and the world will be watching as Germany continues its journey toward a greener future. The successful execution of SuedLink could very well set the standard for similar projects across Europe and beyond, signaling a new era in energy distribution that prioritizes sustainability and resilience.
