Nexans Electra Takes Shape in Norway

Nexans has reached a pivotal moment in the construction of Nexans Electra, its next-generation cable-laying vessel (CLV), as the hull arrives at Ulstein Verft in Norway for the final outfitting phase. More than just a milestone in shipbuilding, this event marks a significant leap in Nexans’ mission to drive the global energy transition—strengthening the backbone of tomorrow’s electrified world.

As the energy landscape evolves, nations and industries are accelerating investments in offshore wind, interconnectors, and deep-sea electrification projects. Nexans Electra is a strategic response to this surge in demand—an advanced, high-capacity vessel engineered to deliver power where it’s needed most, with greater efficiency, sustainability, and precision than ever before.

Built to meet the challenges of a low-carbon future, Electra will significantly expand Nexans’ turnkey capabilities in subsea cable installation—reinforcing our position as a global leader in offshore power transmission solutions.

Major Construction Milestone Reached

The hull of Nexans Electra—initially constructed at the Crist shipyard in Poland—has now arrived in Ulsteinvik, entering its critical outfitting and completion stage at Ulstein Verft. Scheduled for delivery in 2026, Electra will soon become one of the world’s most capable CLVs, purpose-built for the complexities

Next-Level Capability

Once completed, the vessel will boast:

• A 10,000-tonne split turntable on deck
• A 3,500-tonne under-deck turntable
• A 450-tonne fibre optic tank

These features will enable Electra to transport and install large volumes of high-voltage DC and AC subsea cables, as well as perform complex construction and repair tasks in deep water.

Outfitting phase in full motion

Now at Ulstein Verft, the vessel will undergo outfitting, electrical installation, insulation, and piping. The yard will also install key equipment such as the main generator set, power and propulsion systems, deck machinery, winches, and topside installations.

Designed for performance and sustainability

Measuring 155.2 metres in length and 31 metres in beam, Nexans Electra is designed to operate in harsh conditions with excellent station-keeping and maneuverability. The vessel will also be equipped with shore power capabilities, an energy storage system, and will be compatible with biofuels—significantly reducing its environmental footprint.

Nexans Electra will play a central role in enabling the global energy transition, expanding Nexans’ capacity to deliver turnkey submarine cable projects with speed, precision, and resilience. From deep-sea construction to high-voltage transmission, this vessel will be at the forefront of offshore innovation, empowering customers and communities around the world.