Zero: The Climate Race There aren’t enough cables to meet rising electricity demand: Bottlenecks Series
10 snips
Jun 12, 2025 Claes Westerlind, CEO of NKT, a leading cable manufacturer, delves into the pressing bottleneck of high-voltage cable supply in the clean energy transition. He explains the complexities of manufacturing, from the differences in land and underwater cables to the challenges posed by rising global electricity demand. Claes highlights the geopolitical landscape, particularly how competition with China impacts the industry. He also touches on historical collusion practices and the hesitance of companies to expand production despite soaring demand.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Complexity of High-Voltage Cables
- High-voltage electricity cables are complex systems with multiple insulation layers and mechanical armor.
- They sustain massive electric power safely over decades, allowing physical touch without shock.
Differences Between HVDC and HVAC Cables
- HVDC cables consist of two cables carrying current in opposite directions, unlike three-phase AC cables.
- DC cables require different insulation materials and precise manufacturing due to constant electrical fields.
Rise of HVDC Technology
- HVDC cables dominate new projects due to better long-distance capability and less energy loss.
- HVDC allows superior power flow control and grid resilience compared to traditional HVAC.