Which cables for wind power? Differences from low to extra-high voltage explained

No cables, no power. And without the right cable type, no functioning wind farm either. In modern onshore wind energy projects, the choice of the correct voltage class plays a central role – not only for efficiency but also for the safety and longevity of the entire installation. The European Court of Auditors also calls for increased investments in the expansion of power grids to successfully advance the energy transition. Because only with modern cables and efficient infrastructure can renewable energies be reliably integrated and a sustainable energy future be secured. Here you can find more information on this topic.

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In the following article, we take a close look at the different voltage classes – from low voltage through medium and high voltage up to extra-high voltage – and show where they are specifically used in the wind farm. Because those who know the differences can plan projects not only more efficiently but also more cost-effectively and reliably.

Low voltage is the entry point of any electrical infrastructure. Cables in this category are designed for voltages up to 1,000 volts (1 kV) and are found in nearly all standard installations – from residential buildings to transformer stations. They also play an important role in wind farms, such as supplying auxiliary units or controlling technical systems. Voltage range: up to 1,000 volts (1 kV)
Typical cable: NAYY Typical applications:

• Residential and commercial installations
• Control lines in wind farms
• Small consumers and auxiliary systems

Advantages:

• Low cost
• Easy to install
• Ideal for short distances

Construction:

• Conductor: copper or aluminum
• Insulation: PVC (cost-effective) or XLPE (heat-resistant)
• Sheath: resistant to mechanical stress

In wind power infrastructure, NAYY is often used for lighting, control systems, or internal power distribution in operation buildings. It is robust, low-maintenance, and has proven itself in practice for decades.

Medium voltage cables are the backbone of any wind farm. They cover the voltage range from 1 kV to 45 kV and are essential for power distribution between wind turbines and collection points. These cables are extremely resilient and must withstand high temperatures, electric fields, and mechanical stress.

Construction (example: NA2XS(F)2Y):

Component	Function
Conductor	Power transmission (copper or aluminum)
Inner semiconductive layer	Field control, voltage optimization
Insulation (XLPE)	High electrical strength, temperature-resistant
Shielding	Protection against interference, grounding
Outer sheath	Mechanical protection, UV- and water-resistant

Typical cable types:

• NA2XS(F)2Y (aluminum conductor, with field control)
• N2XSY (copper conductor, highly conductive)
• NA2XS2Y (optimized for low capacitance over long distances)

Applications:

• Turbine connections within the wind farm
• Collection lines to transformer stations
• Connections in hybrid systems (e.g. solar-wind projects)

Those who choose NA2XS(F)2Y rely on a proven solution for the medium-voltage level. These cables are not only powerful, but also durable and economical – a reliable choice for energy distribution in wind farms. You can also obtain this cable directly from us (KLZ). More information and ordering options can be found here:

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High voltage begins at 45 kV and extends up to 230 kV. This voltage level is crucial for connecting larger wind farms to regional or supraregional grids. The cables must transport enormous amounts of electricity safely and with minimal loss – often over many kilometers. Typical characteristics:

• XLPE insulation in multiple layers for maximum electrical stress
• Copper or aluminum shielding against overvoltage and electric fields
• Reinforced outer sheaths, protected against water, pressure, and UV radiation

Applications:

• Grid connection of remote wind farms
• Long-distance lines to substations
• Transition to higher-level high-voltage grids

Example cable:
NA2XS(F)2Y – this cable type meets all requirements for modern high-voltage grids. It offers high operational reliability and, thanks to its modular design, is easy to plan and calculate. High voltage cables form the link between wind farms and the power grid. Choosing quality here ensures not only feed-in but also the long-term operational reliability of the project.

Above 230 kV begins the extra-high voltage level. These cables are primarily used where large-scale power distribution and supraregional connection of energy centers are required. In times of energy transition and international electricity trade, extra-high voltage cables are not just a technical necessity – they are strategically crucial. Technical requirements:

• Multi-layer XLPE insulation
• Metallic shielding and grounding components
• Armoring against mechanical impact
• Fiber optic systems for continuous monitoring (temperature, load)

Typical applications:

• Grid connection of large offshore or hybrid power plants
• Interregional energy connections
• Smart grid wind power cables in intelligent distribution networks

Such cables are usually custom-made, perfectly tailored to each project. They not only transport electricity but also handle control and communication tasks – all in a single cable system. Extra-high voltage cables are a technical masterpiece. When used correctly, they make renewable energy available efficiently, intelligently, and across national borders.

Category	Voltage	Typical Cables	Application in Wind Farms
Low Voltage (LV)	up to 1 kV	N2X2Y, N2XY, NA2X2Y, NA2XY, NAY2Y, NAYCWY, NAYY, NY2Y, NYCWY, NYY	Control systems, auxiliary units
Medium Voltage (MV)	1 – 45 kV	N2XS(F)2Y, N2XS(FL)2Y, N2XS2Y, N2XSY, NA2XS(F)2Y, NA2XS(FL)2Y, NA2XS2Y, NA2XSY	Main lines, turbine-to-transformer
High Voltage (HV)	45 – 230 kV	NA2XS(F)2Y high voltage	Grid connection, long-distance lines
Extra-High Voltage (EHV)	over 230 kV	Custom-made	International power corridors, smart grids

The table shows: the higher the voltage, the more specialized the cable. At the same time, the demands on planning, installation, and monitoring increase. You can read in this article how our energy can be distributed smartly and sustainably.

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In a modern wind farm, it is not only the turbine that determines efficiency and reliability – the right choice of cable is also crucial. The requirements for voltage, insulation, load capacity and environmental conditions are varied and complex. Those who take a planned approach here can not only reduce costs, but also create long-term security. Whether it’s the NAYY underground cable, a medium-voltage cable for wind power or a fully equipped wind farm smart grid cable – the right solution starts with know-how. And that is exactly what we are here for.