Sumitomo Strengthens HVDC Cable Production in Germany
The Sumitomo Electric Südkabel acquisition marks a major move in Germany’s clean energy transition. Sumitomo Electric, based in Japan, will purchase a controlling stake in Südkabel GmbH and expand cable manufacturing at the Mannheim plant. The facility will produce 525 kV HVDC cables for Amprion’s two large‑scale renewable projects worth about €3 billion. Learn more at https://global-sei.com.
Supporting Germany’s Clean Energy Network
Amprion, one of Germany’s leading transmission system operators (TSOs), chose Sumitomo Electric as a preferred supplier for the Korridor B and Rhein‑Main‑Link grid projects. These upgrades are vital to moving renewable power from northern wind farms to southern industrial centers. Therefore, Sumitomo’s investment allows Amprion to produce cables locally, strengthening energy security and supporting domestic manufacturing.
Expanding Local Cable Production
Sumitomo Electric will produce about 300 km of 525 kV HVDC cable for the V49 section of Korridor B, linking Wilhelmshaven and Hamm. Additionally, the company will supply cable for part of the 500‑km Rhein‑Main‑Link, which will transport offshore wind energy from the North Sea to central Germany.
Both routes will enhance power transmission capacity and help reduce grid congestion. As a result, they play an essential role in meeting Germany’s renewable energy and net‑zero targets.
Südkabel’s Legacy of Innovation
Founded in Mannheim in 1898, Südkabel has evolved through multiple ownerships and name changes. It became ABB Energiekabel GmbH in the 1980s before returning to Südkabel GmbH in 2004 under new ownership. Today, the company employs about 260 people and continues to pioneer high‑voltage cable systems. You can explore its history at https://www.suedkabel.com.
Investing in Local Manufacturing and Growth
Sumitomo Electric will acquire a 90% stake in Südkabel and invest approximately €90 million to expand the Mannheim facility. The upgrade supports local production of advanced 525 kV HVDC cables and ensures efficient delivery to European projects over the next decade.
“With this acquisition, we can fully localize production in Germany to support Amprion and the energy transition,” said Masaki Shirayama, CEO of Sumitomo Electric’s Wire and Energy Unit. “Meanwhile, our new submarine cable plant in Scotland will further expand our high‑voltage production across Europe.”
Learn more about Sumitomo Electric’s global initiatives at https://global-sei.com/company.