NKT Offshore Cables for Swedish Grid Upgrade Project

NKT has won the sea-section of a project to replace overhead lines with 420 kV high-voltage AC power cables between the Beckomberga and Bredäng quarters of the Swedish capital of Stockholm.

The upgrade of the connection will strengthen the stability of the local grid system to accommodate increased power demand.

Increased stability of the Stockholm area power grid combined with a need to also expand the grid to match the rising number of inhabitants in the city, are the main drivers behind the “Stockholm Ström” project, which is set to ensure sufficient power supply for future generations.

Part of this project is the replacement of overhead lines with NKT awarded 420 kV high-voltage AC offshore power cable system on the 6 km long sea distance between the Beckomberga and Bredäng quarters.

The order is awarded by Ellevio, and NKT will provide a turnkey solution comprising design, manufacturing and offshore installation of the total of 50 km power cables. The NKT contract value amounts to approximately EUR 35 million.

“We see a growing need to expand power grids to support both rising populations and urbanization as well as increased political ambitions for use of electricity generated by renewable energy sources. NKT is recognised as a strong partner with a proven track record for such grid upgrade projects. Therefore, we are also pleased to be selected by our long-term customer Ellevio,” says Andreas Berthou, NKT Executive Vice President and Head of high-voltage solutions.

The NKT offshore power cables are to be manufactured at the NKT factory in Karlskrona, Sweden expectedly in 2020 with anticipated project completion in 2022.

When commissioned, the Beckomberga-Bredäng connection will be operated by Ellevio at a 220 kV level. In addition, the connection is prepared for future grid expansion at a higher voltage level to avoid additional power cable laying at a later stage.