SunCable Plans HV Cable Manufacturing Plant in Tasmania
SunCable plans to build a new high-voltage (HV) cable manufacturing plant in Tasmania. The facility will produce cables for the Australia-Asia PowerLink (AAPowerLink) project. This move helps the company overcome supply delays and meet the massive cable demand for one of the world’s biggest solar ventures.
Advancing the Australia-Asia PowerLink
The AAPowerLink aims to produce 20 gigawatts (GW) of solar power in Australia’s Northern Territory. The energy will flow to Darwin, then continue to Singapore through an 800 km overhead line and a 4,300 km subsea HVDC cable.
Currently, all advanced HVDC subsea cable factories operate in the Northern Hemisphere. As a result, lead times for orders can stretch beyond eight years. By producing its own cables, SunCable expects faster turnaround and greater supply stability.
Renewed Focus After Ownership Change
SunCable regained direction in 2023 after leadership changes. Earlier disputes between Mike Cannon-Brookes and Andrew Forrest led to restructuring. Eventually, Grok Ventures, owned by Cannon-Brookes, acquired full control. With that transition complete, SunCable refocused on delivering its original goal—clean energy from Australia to Asia.
Building an Australian Cable Hub
SunCable plans to start construction in 2025 and manufacture its first HV cables by 2029. The new plant will anchor the AAPowerLink project while creating significant local benefits.
The company also continues discussions with leading cable manufacturers to co-develop and operate the facility. The site at Bell Bay, Tasmania, was chosen for its proximity to deep-water ports, reliable rail links, and renewable power sources. These advantages make it ideal for large-scale HVDC cable production.
Strengthening Renewable Energy Supply
Through this investment, SunCable hopes to reduce global HVDC cable shortages and support the growth of Australia’s renewable sector. The new Tasmanian hub represents more than infrastructure—it’s a major step toward sustainable energy independence and regional resilience.