Daehan Electric Wire is embarking on the localization of underwater robots necessary for the construction of high-voltage direct current (HVDC) undersea cables. This initiative aims to internalize not only cable manufacturing capabilities but also installation equipment and construction technology, in response to large-scale power grid projects such as the West Coast Energy Highway.
On August 19, Daehan Electric Wire announced that it has signed a memorandum of understanding with marine robotics company Fanstar Robotics to localize the ROV (remotely operated vehicle) for offshore wind and HVDC undersea cable projects. The two companies will jointly develop high-performance installation ROVs and operational systems for HVDC undersea cables and offshore wind projects.
An ROV is a remotely operated underwater robot used for tasks such as burying or protecting undersea cables. Currently, most installation equipment used in large HVDC undersea cable projects is imported, often relying on foreign specialists during operations.
The characteristics of domestic waters also heighten the need for localized equipment. The southwestern sea area has strong currents, high turbidity, and shallow depths. Daehan Electric Wire and Fanstar Robotics plan to develop high-performance installation ROVs suited to domestic conditions to enhance construction stability and efficiency.
Daehan Electric Wire is also expanding its manufacturing capacity by constructing a second undersea plant capable of producing 640kV HVDC undersea cables, indicating that the localization of ROVs could broaden its business scope from production to construction.
The two companies will develop ROVs applicable to offshore wind internal and external networks, long-distance system interconnections, and HVDC undersea cables. They are also pursuing plans to validate undersea cable installation and protection technologies before applying them to actual construction sites. Participation in national research and development projects and exploring overseas markets are also under consideration.
Through this initiative, Daehan Electric Wire aims to strengthen its turnkey capabilities across the entire value chain of undersea cables, from design and production to transportation, installation, and burial. If large-scale undersea cable projects expand in the country, it is expected to reduce reliance on foreign equipment and specialists.
Additionally, the company is expanding its undersea cable production and construction infrastructure. Following the first undersea plant, it is constructing a second plant capable of producing 640kV HVDC undersea cables. The introduction of the Palos and Scandi Connector, the first cable laying vessel for offshore wind in the country, is also enhancing its transportation, installation, and burial capabilities.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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