Nexans Sets 3,000-Metre World Record for Subsea HVDC Cable
Nexans has completed the qualification of a 525 kV high-voltage direct current (HVDC) mass-impregnated cable system for installation at a depth of 3,000 metres, setting what the company describes as a new world record for submarine power cable installation.
The qualification was completed as part of the Great Sea Interconnector, a planned ±525 kV subsea link connecting Crete and Cyprus.
The programme included testing of the cable, flexible factory joint and flexible repair joint. During mechanical testing, the system was subjected to tension of up to 842 kN.
The latest qualification follows a full-scale sea trial at 3,000 metres completed earlier this year, during which Nexans installed and recovered its 525 kV cable and joint under real offshore conditions.
Nexans said the achievement could make previously challenging deepwater routes more viable for future electricity interconnectors.
The company is presenting the technology at CIGRE Paris Session 2026, taking place from 23–28 August.
Nexans says it is currently the only manufacturer with a power cable system qualified for installation at a depth of 3,000 metres.
