Hydro and NKT to decarbonize electricity infrastructure
Hydro and Nordic power cable provider, NKT, have entered into a strategic partnership to develop a best in class, low-carbon aluminium power cable value chain for the development of Europe’s renewable energy grid.
Towards 2030, Hydro and NKT will collaborate on R&D and product development to explore aluminium wire rod applications that allow for even lower-carbon footprint while maintaining quality. Projects will be conducted within both primary and recycled aluminium.
“Power cables play a vital role in transmitting and connecting renewable energy, and the power infrastructure segment has a significant potential for increased use of aluminium. Our joint roadmap with NKT will pave the way for aluminium and thereby reduce the embedded carbon in Europe’s power grid,” says Eivind Kallevik, Executive Vice President for Hydro Aluminium Metal.
Despite the rapid growth of renewable energy, outdated and inadequate power grids could prove to be a significant stumbling block to the green transition. To achieve the goal of limiting global warming to 1.8 degrees Celsius, an estimated USD 3.1 trillion investment in grid infrastructure is needed before 2030, according to research from independent research and business intelligence company Rystad Energy.
