On May 14, 2024, Japan’s Sumitomo Electric marked a pivotal moment in the UK’s energy future with the groundbreaking ceremony for its new subsea cable factory in Scotland. Located at the Port of Nigg, this facility is poised to play a crucial role in reinforcing the UK’s electricity transmission grid, connecting renewable energy sources, and propelling the nation towards its Net Zero Target. This ambitious project, backed by a £350…

Iberdrola has taken a significant step in expanding its electricity networks in the UK by acquiring 88% of Electricity North West (ENW) for €2.5 billion (£2.1 billion). This deal values the entire company at approximately €5 billion, including debt. The acquisition strengthens Iberdrola‘s presence in the UK, making it the company’s leading market by regulated asset base, now valued at €14 billion. ENW, serving nearly five million people across North…

Tratos, a prominent player in cable technology, has recently completed the acquisition of SkyWrap from AFL Europe. This strategic move includes taking ownership of AFL’s manufacturing facility in Swindon, UK, where SkyWrap, a pioneer in optical attached cable (OPAC) technology, has been produced. SkyWrap, developed independently in the UK during the early 1980s, revolutionised communication networks by enabling fibre optic cables to be helically applied to existing power line conductors….

In the landscape of modern infrastructure projects, few stand out as clearly transformative as the recent upgrade of the 380kV overhead power line between Rondissone and Turbigo, Italy. This project, spearheaded by Terna Rete Italia and executed in the fertile rice fields between Turin and Milan during November and December 2023, represents a significant leap towards a more sustainable and resilient energy grid. At the heart of this endeavour was…

Enhancing Dominance in the North American Cable Market Prysmian’s recent announcement of acquiring Encore Wire for an enterprise value of approximately 3.9 billion euros ($4.15 billion) marks a significant step in the evolution of the global cable industry, particularly in the North American region. This strategic move underscores Prysmian‘s commitment to strengthening its position in one of its most profitable markets, showcasing its prowess as the world’s largest cable maker….

Porthcurno, a picturesque village in Cornwall, holds a unique place in the history of global communications. In 1870, it was supposed to be the landing site for the first telegraph cable connecting India and the UK. However, due to complications, the cable found its way to Porthcurno instead. Today, this tranquil village serves as the hub for six modern fiber optic cables, underlining the critical role undersea cables play in…

In a significant stride towards bolstering Germany’s renewable energy infrastructure, Prysmian Group, a leading Italian cable maker and installation services provider, has inked three substantial contracts with the German transmission system operator Amprion. Valued at a staggering $5 billion, these contracts mark a pivotal moment in the nation’s journey towards harnessing offshore wind power to meet its energy needs sustainably. The agreements encompass the development of two offshore grid connection…

Nexans, a leading French cable and optical fibre manufacturer, has recently announced its acquisition of La Triveneta Cavi, an esteemed Italian company renowned for its expertise in low-voltage wires. This strategic move signifies Nexans’ commitment to expanding its cable portfolio and reflects its anticipation of the burgeoning demand for fire safety cables; a segment predicted to witness significant growth in the coming years. La Triveneta Cavi’s illustrious history of 1965…

Amidst the serene waters of the Red Sea, a shadow of conflict looms large, disrupting not just the tranquillity of the waves but the very arteries of global commerce. The Houthi militants, operating from the heart of Yemen, have intensified their assaults on commercial vessels, sparking fears of a broader confrontation that tugs at the delicate threads of international relations and global economics. This narrative unfolds against the backdrop of…

In recent years, several African nations, including Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Mauritania, and Zimbabwe, have set ambitious goals to become hubs for renewable energy production. They are investing in vast renewable energy projects that aim to supply clean energy to Europe through underwater cables. While this endeavour holds great promise for Africa and Europe, significant financial challenges must be overcome to make these projects a reality. The proposed underwater cable systems…

The difference between AWA (Aluminium Wire Armoured) and SWA (Steel Wire Armoured) cables lies primarily in the materials used for their armoring and the subsequent properties and applications of each type. Choosing between AWA and SWA cables usually depends on the specific requirements of the installation, including factors like environmental conditions, mechanical strength needs, weight considerations, and cost.

The winds of change continue to blow through the offshore wind industry as the Windward Offshore consortium announces its decision to exercise options for constructing two cutting-edge hybrid Commissioning Service Operation Vessels (CSOVs). This significant development marks another milestone in pursuing renewable energy, strengthening the offshore wind sector’s infrastructure and capabilities. In October 2023, Windward Offshore entered a promising contract with Vard, setting the stage for creating these state-of-the-art vessels….