The Future of Subsea Cables and Connectors in Offshore Energy
As the demand for offshore wind power continues to grow, the need for advanced subsea cables and connectors is becoming increasingly apparent. Companies like Nexans and Siemens are at the forefront of this technological evolution, developing new high-voltage direct current (HVDC) cables and subsea connectors to meet the challenges of transmitting power from offshore wind farms to shore.
Upscaling HVDC Cables for Offshore Wind
Nexans, a leading manufacturer of subsea cables, is upscaling its HVDC cables from 400kV to 525kV to meet the growing demand for offshore wind projects. These cables are heavier and have the potential to get hotter, requiring deeper burial in the seabed to mitigate risks. Pascal Radue, EVP for Power Transmission at Nexans, highlights the importance of insulation technology and cable design to ensure the safety and efficiency of offshore wind power transmission.
Challenges in Tidal Energy Systems
Similar challenges are faced in tidal energy systems, where constant motion and harsh conditions present unique obstacles. System integrator Proteus Marine Renewables, in collaboration with SMI, recently upscaled a tidal energy system in Japan, emphasizing the critical role of durable and reliable cabling systems in such environments.
Innovations in Subsea Connectors
Siemens Energy is pioneering the development of higher-rated subsea wet-mate connectors, with a new 66kV system set for release. The company is also exploring the feasibility of 150kV connectors for future subsea electrification projects and floating offshore wind applications. The demand for greater subsea connectivity is driving advancements in cable and connector technology, with a focus on ethernet and fiber optic products to support data transmission and improve efficiency.
Enhancing Resilience and Performance
Teledyne Impulse-PDM and BIRNS are also pushing the boundaries of subsea connector technology, with a focus on enhanced resilience, performance, and durability in extreme marine environments. Optical expanded beam connectors and advanced pressure testing facilities are being developed to meet the demands of offshore applications.
Expanding Subsea Cable Networks
Projects like Space Norway’s Arctic Way Cable System and Meta’s Project Waterworth are pushing the limits of subsea cable installations, with connections spanning thousands of kilometers and reaching depths of up to 7,000 meters. These ambitious endeavors demonstrate the growing importance of advanced subsea cables and connectors in enabling offshore energy transmission on a global scale.
Overall, the future of subsea cables and connectors in offshore energy is bright, with ongoing innovations and advancements paving the way for more efficient, reliable, and sustainable power transmission from offshore wind farms and tidal energy systems.