NKT flags off Swedish project to create low-carbon aluminium and polyolefin power cables

NKT, a global supplier of turnkey solutions for AC/DC cables, has kept the torch burning with its relentless contribution to making lower carbon footprint products and solutions. Recently it has allocated its Falun facility in Sweden to create and install low-carbon aluminium and polyolefin 1 kV power cables.

The Falun unit runs on 100 per cent renewable energy, and the organisation will manufacture low-carbon aluminium and polyolefins with the amenities available. For NKT, this project is a very definitive move that helps decrease the carbon footprint of its power cable solutions. The company also boasts of making the world's first HVDC power cable applying low-carbon copper.

The Executive Vice President and Head of Applications in NKT, Will Hendrikx, quoted: "This is a game changer in the development of an energy infrastructure built with innovative, low-carbon solutions. We see a growing market demand for more environmentally friendly products and solutions and are proud to be among the first to deliver an innovative low voltage cable after close collaboration with our customers and suppliers."

NKT has hooked itself in a long-term agreement with Norwegian company Hydro for the supply of low-carbon aluminium for its products, creating these innovative solutions in partnership with Nordic suppliers. Hydro's aluminium is produced by applying a potent electrolysis technology and renewable energy sources. This is unique as the aluminium flaunts a carbon footprint of 4 kg carbon dioxide per kg of aluminium, which is lower than a quarter of the international average.

Borealis will supply the low-carbon polyolefin required for cable insulation and jacketing. To top everything, the polyolefin will be derived from renewable feedstocks.

The Swedish power grid firm Ellevio has deeply helped NKT to develop these low-carbon cables, and they are going to be the first customers for the same.

The Sustainability Manager at Ellevio, Karolina Viksten, exclaims: "As the electricity grid provider for around one million homes and businesses in Sweden, our company plays a key role in the transition to an electrified, fossil-free society. As we are preparing the grid for the energy transition, we want to turn every stone to reduce our own footprint. Emissions from the manufacturing of cables and overhead lines account for approximately 60 per cent of our carbon footprint. It is one of our most prioritised improvement areas, and NKT's innovative cable is an important initiative. We're honoured to be the first customer."

With this project in Sweden, NKT further establishes itself as a one-stop provider of sustainable solutions. The company will play a huge role in the European transition to renewable energy in the foreseeable future.