In 2023, Sumitomo Electric UK Power Cables Ltd (SEUK-CL), a subsidiary of Japan’s Sumitomo Electric, confirmed its intention to build a 57,500 sqm factory at the Port of Nigg, which is the northern most area of the Inverness & Cromarty Firth Green Freeport.
The development will be located on a 15-hectare site and includes external laydown areas, a warehouse and offices. Planning permission for the development was granted by The Highland Council in January 2024 with construction of the facility now well underway.
The development of a £350million subsea high voltage cable manufacturing operation is one of the biggest ever inward investments projects for the Scottish Highlands. Additionally, Sumitomo’s factory at the entrance to the Cromarty Firth North Sea inlet will help reduce supply times, strengthen the UK and Scotland’s energy security and support the strive towards Net Zero.
The designation of Inverness and the Cromarty Firth as the location of one of two Scottish Green Freeports played a significant part in attracting the firm to the region. Not only does the ICFGF offer financial incentives, but the location and facilities serve to deliver an ideal location for siting a submarine cable factory there. The deep water port allows the largest of cable laying vessels easy access to effect loading activities and the proximity to market allows significant reduction in transport times and a greener logistics solution.
The development of a £350million subsea high voltage cable manufacturing operation is one of the biggest ever inward investments projects for the Scottish Highlands
Coupled with the physical attributes of the site, the general support received and given by the ICFGF and the various UK and Scottish government entities in welcoming and facilitating Sumitomo into the area has translated to a confident decision by the management of Sumitomo to take up residence in the locale.
ICFGF member Global Energy Group, which owns one of Scotland’s most important energy industry facilities, the Port of Nigg, is an industrial partner within the project. The venture will be Sumitomo’s first cable manufacturing facility located in the western hemisphere and represents a major first step toward creating a high value manufacturing cluster in the area.
At a glance
Company
Sumitomo Electric UK Power Cables Ltd
Location
Port of Nigg
Facilities
57,500 sqm factory on a 15-hectare site, including a warehouse, offices, and external laydown areas
Strategic Importance
Supports UK and Scotland’s energy security and Net Zero ambitions through subsea high-voltage cable production
