The ADNOC HVDC Project is the first large-scale subsea HVDC transmission system in the Middle East. With a planned capacity of 3,200 MW, it will connect offshore oil and gas production facilities in Abu Dhabi to the onshore grid. By replacing offshore gas turbines with electricity supplied via HVDC, the project will significantly reduce carbon emissions and improve efficiency in ADNOC’s operations.
This project is strategically important as it demonstrates how HVDC can be used not only for renewables and interconnectors, but also for decarbonizing oil and gas infrastructure.
Project Facts Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Length | ~140 km (subsea) |
| Capacity | 3,200 MW |
| Voltage | ±400 kV HVDC |
| Investment Size | ~$3.6 billion |
| Companies | Hitachi Energy (TYO: 6501), Korea Electric Power Corp (KEPCO, KRX: 015760), Abu Dhabi National Oil Co. (ADNOC, state-owned) |
| Status (2025) | Under construction |
| Expected Completion | 2026–2027 |
Background
- Location: Offshore Abu Dhabi, UAE, connecting ADNOC’s production facilities to the onshore transmission grid.
- Ownership: Developed by ADNOC in partnership with TAQA (Abu Dhabi National Energy Co.); contracts awarded to KEPCO and Hitachi Energy.
- Purpose: Electrify offshore oil and gas platforms by replacing onsite gas turbines with clean electricity from shore.
- Strategic significance: First HVDC subsea link in the Middle East; aligns ADNOC’s strategy to cut upstream carbon intensity.
Investor Angle
The project is state-backed, but several listed companies are directly exposed:
- Hitachi Energy (TYO: 6501): Providing HVDC converter technology.
- Korea Electric Power Corp (KEPCO, KRX: 015760): Key EPC contractor.
- Indirect exposure: Suppliers of subsea cable technology (potential Prysmian or Nexans involvement, though not confirmed as of 2025).
Why it matters for investors:
- Expands HVDC into new geographies and applications beyond renewables.
- Strengthens Hitachi Energy’s global leadership, with a flagship project in the Middle East.
- Supports KEPCO’s international contracting business amid domestic challenges.
FAQ
Q: What is the ADNOC HVDC Project?
It is a 3,200 MW subsea HVDC system connecting ADNOC’s offshore oil platforms to the onshore UAE grid.
Q: Why is ADNOC building an HVDC link?
To replace offshore gas turbines with electricity from shore, reducing emissions and improving efficiency.
Q: When will the project be completed?
The project is expected to be operational by 2026–2027.
Q: Which companies are involved?
Hitachi Energy (HVDC systems), KEPCO (EPC contractor), and ADNOC/TAQA as project developers.
Q: Can investors gain exposure?
Yes, indirectly via Hitachi (TYO: 6501) and KEPCO (KRX: 015760), which are directly contracted for the project.