Future electrical systems and cables

The UK is currently a successful exporter of electrical cables and cable protection systems, with UK-based companies winning numerous offshore wind contracts across Europe, APAC and North America.

The UK has existing capability to design and manufacture HVAC systems, including array cables, export cables and components. With the UK’s first two HVDC cable factories now under construction, the nation is in a solid position to build on its existing strengths and develop new capabilities in line with this priority. Significant demand from UK wind farms (1,700km per year) and expected investment in UK grid infrastructure coupled with a strong academic background in electrical engineering in the UK makes this a key priority for investment and future development with much of the groundwork already in place.

The IGP suggests that through increased innovation and investment in technology, UK manufacturers can minimise cable failures, develop next generation, high transmission-capacity static and dynamic cables and interoperable HVDC systems. Leveraging our competitive advantage, the UK could benefit from a greater share of a global serviceable market worth £77 billion between now and 2035, and a domestic serviceable market worth £19 billion over the same period with a ten-year GVA of up to £3.4 billion.