SuperNode is thrilled to announce the opening of its new Cable Technology Centre in Blyth, Northumberland – expanding our operations beyond Dublin, where we have been based since our founding in 2018. The facility was launched on Wednesday, 25th September, accompanied by speeches from Pat Cox, former President of the European Parliament, Ronnie Bonnar, Chair of the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult, and Richard Wearmouth, Deputy Leader of Northumberland County Council.
CEO John Fitzgerald stated, "Our new Cable Technology Centre is a significant milestone for SuperNode. It will enable the production and subsequent deployment of our first superconducting cables for bulk electricity transmission outside our laboratory in Dublin."
This facility represents the first phase of a larger, multi-year project to develop next-generation superconducting cables. These cables will transform long-distance transmission by reducing costs and infrastructure requirements compared to traditional copper cables, while transferring several times more power. This technology will enhance grid reliability, address critical supply chain challenges, and provide a scalable solution to meet the increasing global demand for efficient renewable energy infrastructure.
At its R&D headquarters in Dublin, SuperNode has developed an initial prototype cable. Now, at our new facility in Blyth, we are scaling up production to create larger prototype samples for extensive testing at the Offshore Renewable Energy (ORE) Catapult. In 2025, we will use this facility to deliver prototypes as part of our SHINE (Superconductors for High Current Innovation for Network Enhancement) project at National Grid’s Innovation centre in Deeside.
Blyth was chosen for our new facility after a thorough review of locations in Ireland and the UK. As a prominent renewable energy hub with excellent port access, Blyth facilitates efficient collaboration with SuperNode’s test partner, ORE Catapult. Its skilled workforce and vibrant engineering community make it ideal for supporting SuperNode’s journey from R&D to commercialisation.
Ronnie Bonnar, Chair of ORE Catapult, said, “Expanding the speed, reliability and reach of the grid is one of the biggest technological hurdles that we face both in the UK and globally on our path to a fully decarbonised economy. SuperNode’s hugely innovative superconductor technology is at the forefront of the drive to meet this challenge, and the opening of their facility in Blyth is a major step forward.”
“Having worked closely with SuperNode for their mechanical, electrical and materials testing over recent months, ORE Catapult is looking forward to continuing to support them in their growth in years to come.”
Councillor Richard Wearmouth, Cabinet Member for Supporting Business and Opportunities at Northumberland County Council, said:
"We're delighted to welcome yet another world-class company to Northumberland.
"It's further recognition of the international reputation this area has for cutting-edge technology and renewable energy. It's particularly pleasing to note Blyth was chosen after various other options were explored in the UK and beyond and is a further boost to the county's economy."
John Fitzgerald continued: “The decision to establish our facility in Blyth aligns with SuperNode's long-term strategy, covering multiple product development stages and demonstration projects with a commercial product ready by the end of the decade. I look forward to continued collaboration with our partners and stakeholders in Blyth, driving innovation and advancing superconducting transmission technology, critical to enabling the energy transition to a carbon-free future.”
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