Nexans sets world record installation depth for a HVDC subsea cable

Nexans, specialists in the design and manufacturing of cable systems and services, has completed the high-voltage subsea cable installation on the Tyrrhenian Link Project in Italy, setting a world record installation depth of 2,150m for a 500kV high-voltage direct current (HVDC) subsea cable

The world record was achieved during an offshore installation campaign in December 2025, as part of Nexans’ works for Terna, an Italian Transmission System Operator. The Tyrrhenian Link is a 500kV HVDC interconnection designed to reinforce Italy’s national transmission grid.

The offshore execution milestone was finalised with the completion of the second pull-in operation on January 1, 2026, which established the physical connection between the cable landing points in Terra Mala, Sardinia, and Fiumetorto, Sicily.

The western section of the Tyrrhenian Link falls within Nexans’ scope of work. It comprises 480km of deep-water subsea cable, installed during two offshore campaigns totalling 200km and 280km, respectively.

The Tyrrhenian Link consists of two 500kV HVDC subsea connections, each 970km in length, with a total transmission capacity of 1,000MW.

Pascal Radue, executive vice president, PWR-Transmission, Nexans, said, “Setting a world record at 2,150 meters and completing the high-voltage subsea cable installation phase of the Tyrrhenian Link are defining achievements for Nexans. Installing a 500 kV HVDC cable at such depths requires exceptional precision and discipline across engineering, manufacturing, route preparation and vessel operations. These milestones reflect the strength of our technology, the performance of the Nexans Aurora, and the expertise of our teams throughout the project.”

Giuseppina Di Foggia, CEO and general manager of Terna, said, “The Tyrrhenian Link has reached a depth of 2,150 meters, setting a world record for a submarine power cable. This milestone demonstrates Terna’s ability to manage highly complex technological challenges and deliver infrastructure that strengthens the stability, security, and adequacy of Italy’s electricity system.”