Nexans Invests €90M in Cable Manufacturing Facilities to Support Offshore Wind Growth
Nexans has announced a significant investment of €90M (US$100M) to enhance its cable manufacturing capabilities, aimed at supporting the growing demand for offshore cables.
The investment plan includes several components. It includes a new 53-meter tower for cable insulation at Nexans' Charleroi plant in Belgium, as well as production capabilities for 525kV HVDC onshore cables to support TenneT's grid projects. The plan also involves upgrades to the cable manufacturing process, including a new stranding line, a degassing system designed specifically for HVDC cables, and a new aluminium drawing line to increase aluminium wire production.
While the majority of the investment will focus on the Charleroi plant, other Nexans facilities will also benefit from the funding. The Calais facility in France will receive a new HVDC lab with a hall built specifically for 525kV HVDC testing, and the power accessories facility in Belgium will get a new injection press. This investment initiative is scheduled to begin in 2025 and is expected to be completed by 2026.
The expansion of Nexans' manufacturing capabilities comes at an important time for the offshore wind industry. As more countries push for renewable energy solutions, the demand for high-quality cables to connect offshore wind farms to onshore power grids is increasing rapidly. Nexans' investment will help meet this growing demand and support the transition to cleaner energy sources.
By upgrading its facilities and expanding its production capabilities, Nexans is positioning itself as a key player in the offshore wind supply chain. The company's focus on high-voltage direct current (HVDC) technology is particularly noteworthy, as HVDC cables are essential for efficiently transmitting power over long distances from offshore wind farms to onshore grids.
This investment not only strengthens Nexans' market position but also contributes to the broader goal of expanding renewable energy infrastructure across Europe. As the offshore wind sector continues to grow, Nexans' enhanced manufacturing capabilities will play a crucial role in supporting the development of sustainable energy solutions.
