Thesis work - Regulatory and Operational Implications of Moving Inter-Array Cables to 132 kV

Are you a student looking to apply your knowledge to real-world solutions that support the energy transition? With us, you will have the opportunity to complete your thesis project close to the business, working alongside experienced specialists and tackling challenges where your ideas and perspectives can make a real difference. 

Vattenfall R&D is responsible for conducting business driven technical development that creates value for the company and helps us realize our strategy. We develop cost effective, safe and sustainable solutions to improve the infrastructure of Vattenfall assets including Wind, Hydro, Nuclear, SKB, Heat, and Distribution.  

Offshore wind farms are continuously increasing in size and generation capacity. As a result, the nominal voltage of inter-array cable systems has evolved from traditional medium-voltage levels to 66 kV in current state-of-the-art designs. With the next generation of offshore wind turbines expected to reach capacities of up to 20 MW, the industry is moving towards 132 kV inter-array cable systems to enable efficient power collection and transmission within wind farms.

Inter-array cables are critical assets that connect wind turbines to offshore substations and directly impact the reliability and availability of offshore wind farms. The challenges associated with these installations are significant, particularly due to the need for the highest quality and precision during installation and commissioning. Any cable failure can result in substantial losses from reduced energy production, while locating and repairing faults offshore requires considerable time, cost, and resources.

This thesis aims to assess the regulatory and operational implications of operating inter-array cable systems at 132 kV, focusing on the transition from medium-voltage to high-voltage operation in offshore wind farms.

The project will provide an overview of the regulatory and operational framework needed for 132 kV inter-array cable systems and support the offshore wind industry in preparing for the next generation of high-capacity wind farm designs.

This thesis work is for 1 student. 

We are looking for a student who is about to complete their academic studies and is eager to apply their knowledge in a real-world setting through a thesis project at Vattenfall. You are someone who shares our values and identifies with our principles: Active, Open, Positive and Safety. 

We see that you have: 

• Education – Master of Science in Electrical Engineering, Energy Engineering, Power Systems Engineering, or any similar fields.
• Understanding of power systems with emphasis on high voltage systems.
• Familiarity with cable design is a plus.
• Proficient in requirements management, modeling, and documentation.
• Ability to work across disciplines and communicate technical concepts effectively.
• Excellent fluency in written and spoken English is a must.

Scope - 30 credits

• Start date: Beginning of February 2027, exact starting date is by agreement.
• Location: Solna, Stockholm.
• Application – Submit a single file containing your CV and a copy of your academic transcripts. Please note that only one file can be uploaded with your application, so it is important that all required information is combined into the same document.
• Application deadline: 2026-10-18, the hiring process is ongoing, therefore please apply as soon as possible,
• Contact person and supervisor at Vattenfall: Catalina Buitrago, andreacatalina.buitragootalora@vattenfall.com. 

Diversity and Inclusion – In Everything We Do 

At Vattenfall, we value being Active, Positive, Open, and Safety-conscious. We are looking for employees who share our vision and can contribute to strengthening our company culture. We believe that diversity helps build a more successful and attractive company, and we strive to be role models in diversity and inclusion. Vattenfall actively works to ensure that all employees have equal opportunities and rights, regardless of age, ethnic or cultural background, gender identity, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or disability. Read more about how we work with diversity and inclusion here. 

Vattenfall is part of Sweden’s critical infrastructure, and many of our positions are therefore classified from a security perspective. If this position is security-classified, a security screening will be conducted prior to employment in accordance with the Swedish Security Protection Act. 

Vattenfall is a leading European energy company serving approximately 12 million customers and employing around 21,000 people. We believe there is a way to build a future where everyone can choose fossil-free ways to move, make, and live.