Xin Lang Cai Jing·2026-02-11 10:16Core Viewpoint - The wind power industry is experiencing unsustainable "involution" competition characterized by low-price disorder, necessitating a shift towards value enhancement through technological innovation [1][4]. Group 1: Industry Trends - The cost of submarine cables accounts for approximately 10% of the total investment in offshore wind projects, highlighting their significance [1][4]. - Offshore wind projects are increasingly adopting higher voltage submarine cables, such as 66 kV collection cables and 330 kV or 500 kV direct current export cables, to improve efficiency and reduce costs [2][5]. - The Guangdong Yangjiang Sanshan Island offshore wind flexible direct current transmission project, which includes a 500 kV offshore converter station and a 115 km long 500 kV direct current export cable, is set to commence in April 2025 [2][5]. Group 2: Competitive Landscape - The domestic market for medium and low voltage submarine cables is highly competitive, with numerous manufacturers and new entrants [1][4]. - Major suppliers of 500 kV ultra-high voltage submarine cables in China include Zhongtian Technology, Oriental Cable, and Hengtong Optic-Electric, indicating a concentrated supply chain [2][5]. - High voltage submarine cables offer higher added value, leading to better performance compared to medium and low voltage cables [2][5]. Group 3: Technological Innovation - The insulation materials for high voltage submarine cables present significant technical challenges, with high dielectric performance and cleanliness requirements [3][6]. - Domestic companies are making strides in the localization of insulation materials, with Hengtong Optic-Electric developing 220 kV cables using domestically sourced insulation materials [3][6]. - Zhongtian Technology is also working on trials for domestic insulation materials, achieving breakthroughs in key materials [3][6].