Hitachi Energy supplies reactors for NKT test centre
New Karlskrona facility will become one of the world’s largest cable-testing centres, enabling AC and DC system validation for future grid needs.
Image credit: Hitachi Energy
Sweden, Karlskrona: Hitachi Energy is supporting NKT in building a new high-voltage cable testing facility at its Karlskrona factory in Sweden. The centre will significantly expand testing capacity for AC and DC cable technologies, addressing the growing demand for advanced systems as part of global clean energy infrastructure.
The test facility, set to be among the largest and most advanced worldwide, will play a vital role in developing next-generation long-distance HVDC cables. These systems are critical as renewable energy integration accelerates and transmission networks face higher capacity requirements.
Hitachi Energy will deliver 15 custom-made shunt reactors, manufactured at its Vaasa transformer factory, with an option for 10 more units. The reactors will be installed in phases up to 2027 and are essential for testing the performance and reliability of high-voltage cable systems under real operating conditions.
The project builds on the established partnership between NKT and Hitachi Energy, who have previously collaborated on existing testing facilities. Both companies highlight the role of advanced testing in ensuring quality, reliability, and preparation for future technologies with higher voltages, new materials, and longer cable lengths.
“By providing cutting-edge technology and support, we are enhancing NKT’s testing capabilities and also contributing to a more sustainable and electrified future,” said Tobias Hansson, Managing Director, Hitachi Energy Sweden.
Darren Fennell, Executive Vice, President and Head of HV Solutions at NKT stated: “Testing is a vital component in ensuring a high level of quality and reliability. The new facility will enhance our leading position in testing high-voltage power cable systems. It will also enable us to prepare for testing future cable technologies with new materials, higher voltage levels, and potentially longer cable lengths.”
The Karlskrona expansion marks a key milestone in NKT’s investments and is expected to be completed by 2027.
Source: Hitachi Energy
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