2026.06.15
Power cables shall be subject to the IAA rules of origin
Selcable calls on Sweden, the European Parliament and the EU member states to work towards the re-inclusion of power cables for electricity transmission and distribution in the rules of origin under the Industrial Accelerator Act (IAA).
European cable manufacturers have the capacity to meet Europe's needs for transmission and distribution cables – made in Europe for Europe's energy transition, energy security and strategic autonomy. Selcable's view is in line with Europacable's position.
➢ Reintroduce power cables for transmission and distribution into the IAA rules of origin.
➢ Ensure that the regulations cover the EU, EEA/EFTA and the UK.
➢ Recognize power cables as strategic grid infrastructure and a key technology for Europe's energy transition.
Selcable recommends the following:
1. Reintroduce power cables into the IAA rules of origin
Power cables were covered throughout the EU Commission's legislative work and were only removed at a late stage. The Commission's impact assessment also identifies power cables as critical grid infrastructure where targeted "Made in Europe" requirements are justified.
2. Ensure production in Europe for Europe
The European cable industry has the capacity to meet Europe’s needs for transmission and distribution cables. Investments of over €4 billion are underway and will more than double production and installation capacity by 2030. The European cable industry has a strong industrial presence not only within the EU but also in the UK, Norway and Switzerland, which play an important role in supplying the European market. This further strengthens the industry’s ability to meet Europe’s future needs for power cables for transmission and distribution.
3. Ensure fair competition and reduce strategic dependencies
Europacable raises the risk of overcapacity in subsidized operators outside Europe. IAA should contribute to fair competition and reduce Europe's dependence on suppliers outside Europe for critical energy infrastructure.
4. Power cables are not the bottleneck for network expansion
Europacable's analysis shows that the European industry has the capacity to meet the expected demand. The challenges lie rather in planning, permitting processes and project implementation.
5. Made in Europe strengthens Europe's competitiveness and security
Investment in European-made power cables strengthens employment, innovation, technological leadership, energy security and strategic autonomy. Secure and resilient land and sea cables are a prerequisite for Europe's energy system and future grid expansion. In light of the deteriorating security situation and the attacks on critical infrastructure in recent years, Europe needs to reduce its dependence on suppliers outside Europe for strategic components and ensure robust and resilient supply chains.