NKT Strengthens Belgium’s Power Grid
NKT has launched its latest project, the NKT Belgium grid upgrade, delivering 545 kilometers of onshore power cables to Elia Transmission Belgium (ETB). The order supports a major modernization of Belgium’s national grid and builds on an existing framework agreement between both companies.
ETB manages the nation’s high‑voltage grid, operating around 9,000 kilometers of overhead lines and underground cables. This new order follows a previous agreement for 72 kilometers of 380 kV AC onshore cables, extending their partnership to cover multiple voltage ranges.
Supporting Belgium’s Growing Energy Demand
“This is one of the largest 70 kV and 150 kV AC onshore orders NKT has received,” said Lukas Sidler, Executive Vice President of HV Solutions Cologne. “It shows how important these voltage levels are for modern grid development.”
NKT will produce the cables at its Cologne, Germany, and Velke Meziříčí, Czech Republic factories. Deliveries and installation will take place from 2025 through 2027.
Belgium’s electricity use is climbing quickly. Projections show demand could rise by 50% by 2032, driven by electrification and new renewable projects.
NKT Belgium Grid Upgrade Supports Renewable Integration
Belgium continues to increase clean‑energy production. In 2023, the country generated a record 21.5 TWh from wind and solar power, a 23% jump compared to 2022. Renewable energy now accounts for 28% of the nation’s electricity mix.
With NKT’s new cables, Belgium will transport renewable power more efficiently. As a result, the grid will remain stable while adapting to more wind and solar input.
NKT Expands Production Capacity in Sweden
In related news, NKT is expanding its Alingsås, Sweden facility to meet growing demand for high-voltage accessories. The company is constructing a new testing hall capable of handling products up to 525 kV, designed to support the global renewable transition.
“With our new high-voltage test facility, we’re meeting NKT’s strong market growth,” said John Sjöström, Head of Operations in Alingsås. “This investment allows us to deliver complete power cable systems for both onshore and offshore wind projects, as well as key interconnectors.”
The expansion also enhances research and development efforts, positioning NKT as a global leader in sustainable energy solutions.
Investing in a Smarter, Cleaner Grid
Through its continued projects with ETB and facility investments in Sweden, NKT reaffirms its commitment to supporting Europe’s energy transition. By delivering reliable, high-voltage cable systems, the company enables countries like Belgium to meet future demand while moving toward carbon neutrality.