CESI: A Global Leader in HVDC Cable Testing

KEMA Labs, the CESI Group’s Testing, Inspection, and Certification Division, has recently expanded its capacity to support High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) technology, solidifying its status as the largest global HVDC cable testing lab. With over ten independent testing facilities, KEMA Labs has been involved in more than 40 major HVDC projects worldwide, covering 30,000 kilometers of overhead power lines, 7,000 kilometers of submarine cables, and 50 GW of installed capacity.

In Milan, KEMA Labs has renovated one of its laboratories, creating three specialized HVDC testing areas with advanced technology. This upgrade will enable over 78,000 hours of testing and the evaluation of nine different cable projects within a 3,100 square meter space. Each cable undergoes a rigorous testing program simulating a forty-year life cycle under extreme conditions.

CESI has played a key role in several major HVDC projects. For the “German Corridor,” CESI conducted pre-qualification tests on HVDC cables, facilitating the transfer of wind-generated energy from the North Sea to southern Germany. In Chile, CESI supported ISA Interchile in developing the 1,500 km HVDC Kimal-Lo Aguirre transmission line, a crucial step in Chile’s decarbonization strategy. CESI’s contributions included design, budget estimates, and developer evaluation.

Additionally, CESI secured a contract with the Saudi Electricity Company to develop an HVDC interconnection system between Riyadh and Mecca. This 800 km network will boost local distribution capacity by over 3,000 MW, enhancing energy security and reducing blackout risks.

CESI continues to lead in HVDC cable testing, significantly contributing to global energy transition and decarbonization efforts.