Prysmian and NKT Win SuedOstLink Cable Contracts in Germany
TenneT and 50Hertz have awarded major contracts to Prysmian Group and NKT. The companies will supply 1,000 kilometers of 525 kV underground power cable for the SuedOstLink transmission line in Germany.
This SuedOstLink transmission cable project will deliver 2 GW of capacity and support Germany’s transition to renewable energy.
SuedOstLink Transmission Cable Project Overview
The SuedOstLink project will become the world’s first large-scale 525 kV XLPE high-voltage DC transmission line. It forms part of Germany’s broader plan to expand renewable energy infrastructure.
The European Union supports the initiative through its Connecting Europe Facility. Meanwhile, TenneT and 50Hertz will invest approximately €5 billion in the project.
According to TenneT, the underground cables form the core of the system. The new 525 kV technology allows higher power transmission compared to traditional 320 kV systems. As a result, developers can reduce route width and limit construction impact.
Technology and Supply Scope
Prysmian and NKT will each supply around 500 kilometers of cable. However, both companies will use different insulation technologies:
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Prysmian will use its P-Laser insulation technology, which enables transmission above 2 GW on a single system
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NKT will deliver cables using XLPE insulation technology, optimized for high-voltage DC performance
The project includes five cable lots, with NKT responsible for three of them.
Prysmian’s €500 Million Contract Scope
Prysmian’s agreement with TenneT covers the full project lifecycle. The company will design, manufacture, install, test, and commission the underground cable system.
The contract carries an estimated value of €500 million, depending on final project options. Prysmian states that this project strengthens its role in advancing the low-carbon energy transition and modernizing Europe’s power grid.
NKT’s Role and Project Timeline
NKT will supply cable systems to 50Hertz and begin production of high-voltage DC cables and accessories. The company plans to start production by late 2021.
Installation will begin in mid-2022, with full project completion expected by 2025. NKT brings strong regional experience, with operations in Cologne, Nordenham, and Berlin, and a history of collaboration with 50Hertz.
As a result, NKT continues to strengthen its position as a key partner in Germany’s green energy transformation.
