Global Underwater Hub Launches Subsea Cable Working Group

Global Underwater Hub has established a working group to develop industry-led guidance supporting the safe, reliable and efficient handling, testing and installation of subsea power cables. The Cable Handling, Testing and Installation Working Group will initially focus on fixed offshore wind developments and inter-array cable systems. Bringing together specialists from across the supply chain, the initiative aims to capture lessons learned and improve project execution as offshore wind deployment accelerates in the UK and internationally.

 

Establishment of the Working Group

 

Global Underwater Hub has created a dedicated group focused on subsea cables. The Cable Handling, Testing and Installation Working Group has been formally established. It will operate under the organisation's Subsea Electrical Systems and Cables Forum. This structure situates the group within an existing framework for subsea electrical work. The initiative reflects growing attention to cable-related project risks.

The group has a defined initial area of focus. Its early work will centre on fixed offshore wind developments and inter-array cable systems. It will also consider export cables where appropriate to the work. Future dynamic cable applications fall within its potential scope as well. This phased focus allows the group to address the most immediate needs first.

 

Purpose and Rationale

 

The group addresses a critical but often overlooked stage of cable projects. Significant advances continue to be made in cable design and manufacture. However, activities between the factory and the seabed play a vital role in cable integrity. These include transportation, storage, handling, testing and installation. Getting these stages right is essential to long-term cable performance and reduced project risk.

The initiative aims to consolidate knowledge from across the sector. It was established to capture lessons learned from across the industry. The resulting guidance will promote greater collaboration and consistency in practice. It also seeks to encourage early engagement between the parties involved. These include developers, manufacturers, engineering organisations and installation contractors.

 

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Membership and Expertise

 

The group draws together a range of industry specialists. Its members include representatives from Seaway7, Apollo and DeepOcean. RED Engineering, Waves Group and MDL complete the participating organisations. This membership spans several complementary areas of expertise. Together they cover a broad cross-section of the subsea cable supply chain.

The combined expertise addresses the full scope of cable operations. The members bring knowledge of engineering and cable installation. They also contribute experience in vessel operations and project delivery. Testing, cable handling equipment and subsea infrastructure complete their areas of expertise. This breadth ensures the guidance reflects practical experience across the sector.

 

Scope of the Guidance

 

The guidance will address the complete lifecycle of a subsea cable. It will consider transportation and logistics from the outset. Installation methodologies and vessel and equipment selection form further areas. Integrity management and testing are also within scope. Cable protection systems and route engineering complete the technical dimensions covered.

The guidance extends beyond technical matters to commercial and operational aspects. It will consider procurement strategies for cable projects. Operations and maintenance also fall within the group's remit. A particular focus is on opportunities to improve delivery through earlier collaboration. This emphasis on early engagement runs throughout the group's approach.

 

Industry Context and Next Steps

 

The initiative responds to the accelerating pace of offshore wind deployment. It supports wider industry efforts to improve project execution and reduce risk. Strengthening collaboration across the supply chain is a central goal. This is increasingly important as offshore wind expands in the UK and internationally. The group positions itself as a resource for future projects facing these pressures.

The group's work will be shared at an upcoming industry event. Its objectives and initial work programme will be presented at the Cables 2026 Conference. That event takes place at Energy Central Campus in Blyth on 9 September 2026. It will gather stakeholders from across the subsea cable sector. Discussions will cover developments in HVDC and dynamic cables, maintenance, repair and emerging technologies.