Nexans has successfully completed the high-voltage subsea cable installation for the Tyrrhenian Link Project in Italy, setting a world record by reaching a depth of 2,150 metres for a 500 kV high-voltage direct current (HVDC) subsea cable. This achievement was realised during an offshore installation campaign in December 2025, as part of Nexans’ collaboration with Terna, the Italian Transmission System Operator. The Tyrrhenian Link is a strategic 500 kV HVDC interconnection designed to bolster Italy’s national transmission grid.
The milestone was finalised with the successful completion of the second pull-in operation on 1 January 2026, establishing the physical connection between the cable landing points in Terra Mala, Sardinia, and Fiumetorto, Sicily. This operation signifies the completion of all high-voltage subsea cable laying activities for the project.
The western section of the Tyrrhenian Link, managed by Nexans, comprises approximately 480 km of deep-water subsea cable, installed over two offshore campaigns of around 200 km and 280 km each. The Tyrrhenian Link as a whole features two 500 kV HVDC subsea connections, each approximately 970 km long, with a total transmission capacity of 1,000 MW.
“Setting a world record at 2,150 metres and completing the high-voltage subsea cable installation phase of the Tyrrhenian Link are defining achievements for Nexans,” said Pascal Radue, Executive Vice President, PWR-Transmission, Nexans. “Installing a 500 kV HVDC cable at such depths requires exceptional precision and discipline across engineering, manufacturing, route preparation, and vessel operations. These milestones reflect the strength of our technology, the performance of the Nexans Aurora, and the expertise of our teams throughout the project.”
Giuseppina Di Foggia, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Terna, remarked, “The Tyrrhenian Link has reached a depth of 2,150 metres, setting a world record for a submarine power cable. This milestone demonstrates Terna’s ability to manage highly complex technological challenges and deliver infrastructure that strengthens the stability, security, and adequacy of Italy’s electricity system.”
By establishing a new world record and completing the high-voltage subsea cable installation, Nexans has once again proven its ability to deliver complex, deep-water HVDC projects with technical excellence and operational rigor.
