High-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission has become the backbone of modern grid infrastructure, enabling long-distance, low-loss power delivery across land and sea. As renewable energy projects scale up and intercontinental interconnections multiply, the demand for advanced HVDC cables has never been higher. In 2025, several manufacturers are pushing the boundaries of cable technology, capacity, and reliability. This article highlights the top HVDC cable manufacturers to watch, based on their innovation, project pipeline, and market impact.
1. Prysmian Group
Prysmian Group remains the undisputed leader in the HVDC cable market, with a portfolio that spans mass-impregnated, self-contained fluid-filled, and extruded XLPE cables. The company has been instrumental in major projects like the North Sea Link and the Viking Link, and continues to invest heavily in submarine cable production capacity. In 2025, Prysmian is expected to complete its new cable-laying vessels and expand its factory in Arco Felice, Italy, to meet soaring demand.
What sets Prysmian apart is its vertical integration, from raw material development to installation and maintenance. The company's P-Laser technology, a thermoplastic elastomer-based insulation, offers higher operating temperatures and lower environmental impact. With a strong order book exceeding €10 billion, Prysmian is a safe bet for utilities planning HVDC projects in the coming years.
2. Nexans
Nexans has carved a niche in HVDC cable systems, particularly for offshore wind and interconnector applications. The company's flagship product, the 525 kV XLPE submarine cable, is designed for deep-water installations and high-power transfer. Nexans recently inaugurated a new high-voltage cable plant in Charleston, South Carolina, to serve the growing U.S. offshore wind market.
In 2025, Nexans is focusing on digitalization and condition monitoring, integrating fiber-optic sensors into its cables to provide real-time data on temperature, strain, and partial discharge. This smart-cable approach reduces downtime and extends asset life. The company's partnership with Siemens Energy on the EuroLink project further solidifies its position as a key player in the HVDC supply chain.
3. NKT
NKT, formerly NKT Cables, has emerged as a formidable competitor in the HVDC arena, especially after acquiring ABB's cable business. The company specializes in extruded HVDC cables up to 640 kV and has delivered critical links such as the SuedLink corridor in Germany. NKT's production facilities in Karlskrona, Sweden, and Cologne, Germany, are among the most advanced in the world.
For 2025, NKT is ramping up production of its 525 kV and 640 kV cables, targeting projects in the North Sea and the Baltic. The company is also investing in recyclable cable designs, aligning with the EU's circular economy goals. With a robust R&D pipeline and a focus on sustainability, NKT is a manufacturer to watch closely.
4. Sumitomo Electric Industries
Sumitomo Electric is a pioneer in HVDC cable technology, having developed the world's first 500 kV extruded cable. The Japanese manufacturer is a key supplier for projects in Asia, including the Hokkaido-Honshu interconnector and several offshore wind farms in Taiwan and Japan. Its cables are known for their exceptional reliability in seismic and deep-sea environments.
In 2025, Sumitomo Electric is expanding its global footprint with a new cable factory in Scotland, aimed at serving the European offshore wind market. The company is also advancing its high-temperature superconducting (HTS) cable research, which could revolutionize urban power transmission. While HTS is still niche, Sumitomo's commitment to innovation makes it a long-term player.
5. LS Cable & System
South Korea's LS Cable & System has rapidly ascended the HVDC ranks, securing major contracts in Asia and the Middle East. The company's 525 kV MI and XLPE cables are used in the Korea-Mainland interconnector and the UAE's offshore grid. LS Cable is known for its competitive pricing and fast project execution.
In 2025, LS Cable is investing in a new submarine cable plant in Vietnam to capture the growing Southeast Asian market. The company is also developing a 600 kV HVDC cable and has partnered with local utilities to test dynamic line rating systems. With a strong domestic base and aggressive international expansion, LS Cable is a rising star.
6. Taihan Electric Wire
Taihan Electric Wire, another South Korean manufacturer, has made significant strides in HVDC cable production. The company recently completed a 525 kV HVDC cable qualification test and is now bidding for projects in the U.S. and Europe. Taihan's strength lies in its integrated manufacturing, from copper rod to finished cable.
For 2025, Taihan is constructing a dedicated HVDC cable plant in Dangjin, South Korea, with an annual capacity of 1,000 km. The company is also collaborating with research institutes on eco-friendly insulation materials. While smaller than Prysmian or Nexans, Taihan's agility and cost competitiveness make it a worthy contender.
7. Elsewedy Electric
Elsewedy Electric, based in Egypt, is a leading HVDC cable manufacturer in the Middle East and Africa. The company has supplied cables for the Egypt-Saudi Arabia interconnector and is involved in several solar and wind farm connections. Elsewedy's cables are designed for harsh desert and subsea conditions.
In 2025, Elsewedy is expanding into Europe and Asia, leveraging its competitive labor costs and strategic location. The company is also investing in smart grid technologies, including fiber-optic temperature sensing. With a focus on emerging markets, Elsewedy is a key player to watch for cost-effective HVDC solutions.
8. Hengtong Group
China's Hengtong Group has become a global force in HVDC cables, with a comprehensive portfolio covering 500 kV and 640 kV systems. The company has supplied cables for the Zhangbei project and several offshore wind farms in China. Hengtong is known for its large-scale production capacity and vertical integration.
In 2025, Hengtong is targeting international markets, particularly in Southeast Asia and Africa. The company is also developing a 1100 kV HVDC cable for ultra-high-voltage applications. With China's ambitious renewable energy goals, Hengtong is well-positioned for growth.
9. ZTT (Zhongtian Technology)
ZTT is another Chinese manufacturer making waves in HVDC. The company specializes in submarine cables and has delivered projects in China and abroad. ZTT's 525 kV XLPE cable is qualified for deep-water installations, and the company is investing in a new plant in Nantong.
For 2025, ZTT is focusing on overseas expansion, particularly in Europe and the Americas. The company is also developing high-capacity cables for offshore wind and interconnectors. With a strong R&D team and government support, ZTT is a formidable competitor.
10. KEI Industries
India's KEI Industries is a relatively new entrant to HVDC cables but is rapidly gaining traction. The company has partnered with global technology providers to develop 320 kV and 525 kV HVDC cables. KEI is targeting India's ambitious renewable energy and interconnector projects.
In 2025, KEI is setting up a dedicated HVDC cable facility in Gujarat. The company's cost advantage and local market knowledge make it a strong contender for domestic projects. While still a niche player globally, KEI's progress is worth monitoring.
Conclusion
The HVDC cable market is poised for explosive growth in 2025, driven by offshore wind, intercontinental interconnectors, and grid modernization. The manufacturers listed above are at the forefront of this transformation, each bringing unique strengths in technology, capacity, and geographic reach. Whether you're a utility, EPC contractor, or investor, keeping an eye on these companies will help you navigate the evolving power transmission landscape.