Third world record for Nexans as it installs 420 kV subsea cable 530 meters under water

April 8, 2026, by Nadja Skopljak

France’s Nexans has completed a deep-fjord 420 kV subsea cable project for Norway’s transmission system operator (TSO) Statnett, set to strengthen the regional transmission grid serving Bergen and nearby industrial areas.

Nexans secured the project in 2022 for the engineering, manufacturing and installation of two high-voltage 420 kV HVAC subsea cables, each incorporating fiber-optic elements and bundled cables to support monitoring and communications, spanning some 7.8 kilometers across the Fensfjord.

The route links the Mongstad area at Grunnevik to Iledalsvågen on the opposite shore and doubles electricity transmission capacity between Haugsvær and Lindås, reinforcing long-term power reliability in the region.

Nexans breaks world record again by installing subsea cable 3,000 meters under water

Project & Tenders

The cable route reaches 530 meters below sea level, setting a world record for installation depth for this type of 420 kV HVAC subsea cable, the French firm noted.

Following cable installation in 2025, Nexans reported that it had now reached full contractual completion, as energization and final certification have been finalized.

Marine operations were carried out by cable-laying vessel (CLV) Nexans Skagerrak, supported by specialized workboats, shallow-water vessels and coordinated onshore installation teams.

“This project required precision engineering and installation at extreme depth and in demanding fjord terrain. Reaching 530 meters with 420 kV HVAC technology represents a significant technical achievement. Most importantly, we delivered safely, on schedule and in close collaboration with Statnett,” said Peter Drakele, Senior Project Manager at Nexans.