South Korean cable manufacturer LS Cable has initiated production under a significant framework agreement with TenneT, a prominent transmission system operator based in the Netherlands and Germany, focusing on two offshore grid connections.
TenneT, in a statement released on Friday, highlighted this development as a pivotal moment, signaling the inception of a new era for its offshore grid connection systems. The introduction of high-performance 525-kV cables stands as a hallmark in TenneT's 2 GW programme, aimed at erecting 14 high-voltage direct current (HVDC) connections, each capable of generating 2 GW, in the Dutch and German North Sea regions.
The commencement of LS Cable's production in Donghae, South Korea, stems from a comprehensive agreement between TenneT and a consortium comprising Jan De Nul Group, LS Cable & Systems, and Denys. This consortium pact, unveiled in May 2023, encompasses the fabrication of four 525-kV DC cable systems.
The initial cables are slated for employment in the BalWin4 and LanWin1 grid connection ventures. Collectively, these two projects will necessitate approximately 1,650 kilometers (1,026 miles) of cables. The routes for BalWin4 and LanWin1 span 275 kilometers each, encompassing 165 kilometers of submarine cables and 110 kilometers of land cables.
The projected timeline for cable production extends to 2028. Jan De Nul is set to commence offshore cable laying operations in the latter half of 2026, coinciding with the planned commencement of land cable construction.
BalWin4 is anticipated to achieve operational status by 2029, followed by LanWin1 in 2030.
