RTE, the transmission system operator for France, now partners with five key suppliers—Prysmian Group, Nexans, NKT including SolidAl, and Hellenic Cables—to secure underground power cable supply for projects through 2028.
Nearly €1 Billion Underground Cable Program
RTE launches a cable program that reaches nearly €1 billion in value. The suppliers provide and install about 5,200 km of underground cables for voltage levels between 90,000 and 400,000 volts. In total, €668 million covers cable supply, while another €300 million covers installation and assembly services.
RTE underground power cable contracts boost French manufacturing
RTE directs roughly one third of the cable volume to French production, totaling more than 1,700 km of cables. Prysmian manufactures at its plants in Gron (Yonne) and Montereau-Fault-Yonne (Seine-et-Marne), while Nexans produces at its Bourg-en-Bresse (Ain) site, which reserves nearly all remaining French capacity through 2028.
This long-term visibility, in turn, encourages new industrial investments. Prysmian already invests in a new cable production line in Seine-et-Marne, which supports local jobs and technical expertise.
RTE underground power cable contracts backed by industry leaders
Prysmian CEO Massimo Battaini notes that the order creates a rare chance to boost local economic and social development at French sites. He also highlights continued investment that leverages local know-how, advanced technology and new employment opportunities.
Similarly, Nexans CEO Christopher Guérin explains that Nexans proudly applies its expertise to a shared goal: a more reliable electricity grid and a stronger European industry.
Long-Term Partnerships and Energy Transition
NKT President and CEO Claes Westerlind stresses that NKT continues its long-term work with RTE as France modernizes its power grid. He also links this collaboration to France’s transition toward renewable energy, noting that NKT has worked with RTE since 2011 and now expands its role by acquiring SolidAl.
Meanwhile, Alexis Alexiou, CEO of Cenergy Holdings, which owns Hellenic Cables, emphasizes that the group feels honored to join RTE’s ambitious plan. He underlines that the initiative strengthens France’s energy infrastructure and promotes sustainable, European-made cable solutions for the regional transmission network.