JDR Cable Systems (JDR), the global subsea cable and umbilical supplier, part of the TFKable Group, has successfully completed two new type test qualifications at 132kV for static and dynamic array cables, supporting the next generation of fixed and floating offshore wind projects. This successful testing marks a critical step in delivering UK-manufactured high-voltage cables, ready to support larger turbines and deliver power over longer distances, enabling more efficient and cost-effective offshore wind energy.
Credit: JDR Cable Systems
JDR’s static cable development and testing was supported by a Development Grant from the Offshore Wind Growth Partnership, and produced in collaboration with a leading materials supplier, with extensive testing performed at Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult. JDR will manufacture the innovative 132kV cables at their upgraded Hartlepool facility as well as in their new high-voltage cable manufacturing facility in Cambois, near Blyth, Northumberland.
To facilitate the installation of next generation offshore wind turbines at 20MW and above, as well as accommodating increasing distances from shore and greater water depths, the industry requires significantly higher voltage cables. By doubling the voltage of the industry-standard 66kV array cable, JDR’s technology will allow increased transmission between turbines at higher-capacity – a vital factor in continuing to reduce the cost of offshore wind and assist in reducing the impact of clean energy prices for consumers.
The successful type test qualification of the fixed foundation 132kV static cable technology is further supported by the successful completion of JDR’s second high-voltage cable development, under the Department of Energy Security and Net-Zero’s Floating Offshore Wind Demonstration Programme. The AHEAD (Advanced High-Voltage Export and Array Dynamic) cable project, supported by £1.6 million in grant funding, has demonstrated the viability of 132kV dynamic cables for floating wind applications. A full testing programme has been successfully completed, including over 1.5 million tension-bending cycles, thereby validating the reliability of the advanced cable design when subjected to the dynamic motion it will endure in offshore floating applications.
Joe Cole, Technology Manager – Power Cables at JDR, comments: “We pride ourselves on providing solutions to the energy sector ahead of time and with our 132kV technology, we will do exactly that. Dynamic cables for floating wind and advanced 132kV cable technologies are critical for the progressive deployment of both fixed and floating offshore wind, enabling developers to not only deploy larger turbines but also to site floating offshore wind in deeper waters, further offshore. It’s an exciting time for the industry and we are right at the forefront by developing, validating and delivering new solutions for the benefit of the offshore energy industry and electricity consumers.”
As part of its broader strategy to drive innovation in high-voltage subsea technology, JDR is contributing its technical findings to the international standards body CIGRE, helping to inform the evolution of safety standards for higher voltage applications. In addition, the company is actively involved in the Carbon Trust’s Offshore Wind Accelerator High Voltage Array Systems project, which supports the development and qualification of 132kV cable technology within the UK. These efforts align closely with the UK Government’s commitment to advancing floating offshore wind, as reflected in the £31.6 million in grant funding awarded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero through the Net Zero Innovation Portfolio, aimed at accelerating the demonstration of innovative technologies in this sector.