In 2023, Sumitomo Electric UK Power Cables Ltd (SEUK-CL), a subsidiary of Japan’s Sumitomo Electric Industries, confirmed its intention to build a 50,000 sqm factory at the Port of Nigg, which is the northern most area of the Inverness & Cromarty Firth Green Freeport.
The development is located on a 15-hectare site and will include the main factory, 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 the £350 million high voltage subsea cable manufacturing operation is one of the biggest ever inward investment projects for the Highlands. Additionally, Sumitomo’s factory at the entrance to the Cromarty Firth North Sea inlet will help reduce supply times, strengthen the UK’s and Scotland’s energy security and support the country’s drive towards net zero.
Our designation as one of only two Green Freeports in Scotland played a significant part in attracting the firm to the region. Not only does the Inverness & Cromarty Firth Green Freeport offer financial incentives, but the location and facilities deliver an ideal location for a subsea cable factory. The deep-water port allows the largest of cable laying vessels easy access for loading activities, while the proximity to market allows significant reduction in transport times and a greener logistics solution.
In addition to the site’s physical advantages, the support from the Green Freeport and both UK and Scottish government bodies has played a key role in giving Sumitomo the confidence to establish operations at the Port of Nigg.
Green Freeport member Global Energy Group owns Port of Nigg – one of Scotland’s most important energy industry facilities – and is an industrial partner within the project. The venture is Sumitomo Electric’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 the UK’s and Scotland’s energy security and net zero ambitions through subsea high-voltage cable production
