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NKT qualifies 525 kV HVDC subsea power cable system for operation at 90 °C
NKT launches a fully qualified 525 kV HVDC power cable system for operation with a 90 °C conductor temperature. This enables increased transmission capability, strengthening the performance of the company's HVDC portfolio for offshore wind, hybrid interconnectors, and future cross-continent transmission lines.
NKT has qualified a 525 kV HVDC extruded XLPE subsea power cable system for continuous operation with a conductor temperature of up to 90 °C, marking a significant advancement in the company's development of its next-generation high-voltage cable technology. The fully qualified cable system gives transmission operators greater flexibility in how HVDC cable systems are designed and operated. Depending on project requirements, the higher temperature capability can be used to support higher transmission capacity, reduce material consumption, and optimise overall system efficiency.
- This qualification marks the next step in our continuous development of HVDC cable technology. The higher temperature capability increases the power transmission capacity while giving customers greater flexibility in how they design and optimise their cable systems. With this advancement, we can help our customers increase transmission capacity with cost-efficient solutions that can be deployed within existing HVDC infrastructure, says Anders Jensen, Chief Technology Officer in NKT.
The new power cable system strengthens NKT's position as a technology leader and supports the growing demand for efficient, reliable, and high-performing HVDC systems for offshore wind, hybrid interconnectors, and future cross-continent transmission lines.
New insulation material
The increased operating temperature is based on NKT's market-leading technology platform and enabled by an upgrade of the insulation system. The inner and outer semiconductive layers have been redesigned using a new material developed and qualified in a joint project between NKT and material partner Borouge International (formerly Borealis). This enhancement forms the core of the improved thermal performance of the cable system and supports the long-term reliability and robustness required for critical transmission infrastructure.
- As a global technology leader in advanced polymer solutions for extruded cable systems, Borouge International brings a strong track record in power transmission infrastructure, as well as extensive innovation capabilities and deep technical expertise. The qualification of LE0650DC, our new semiconductive material developed as part of our long-term collaboration with NKT, marks another important milestone in advancing HVDC cable technology, says Bart Verheule, Vice President Marketing, Energy, Borouge International
NKT's new 90 °C technology portfolio includes power cables with voltage levels of up to 525 kV HVDC for both on- and offshore installation as well as power cable accessories.
About NKT
NKT connects a greener world with high-quality power cable technology and plays a key role as the world moves towards clean energy. NKT designs, manufactures and installs low-, medium- and high-voltage power cable solutions enabling reliable transmission of energy. Since 1891, NKT has innovated the power cable technology, building the infrastructure from the first light bulbs to the megawatts created by renewable energy today. NKT is headquartered in Denmark, operates from more than 30 locations worldwide, and employs 6,500 people globally. NKT is listed on Nasdaq Copenhagen and realised a revenue of EUR 3.6 billion in 2025. NKT - We connect a greener world. www.NKT.com.
Contact
Pelle Fischer-Nielsen, External Communications Lead
+45 2223 5870 / pelle.fischer-nielsen@nkt.com
About Borouge International
Borouge Group International AG (Borouge International) is a global leader in polyolefins formed in 2026 through the combination of Borouge Plc, Borealis and NOVA Chemicals. Backed by long-term shareholders XRG, the international investment arm of ADNOC, and OMV, Borouge International brings together world-class assets, advantaged feedstock access and proprietary technology to deliver reliable high-performance polyolefin solutions across consumer products, infrastructure, energy, mobility and advanced products. Borouge International combines a differentiated asset base, global reach and deep technical expertise to serve customers across key growth markets. The company is headquartered in Vienna, Austria, with a regional headquarters in Abu Dhabi, UAE, and corporate hubs in North America and Asia Pacific.