The visit took place following the signing of the UK-Japan Offshore Wind Industrial Partnership at Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry on November 10, and formed part of efforts to further strengthen industrial cooperation between the UK and Japan in the energy sector, including offshore wind.

During the factory tour, the delegation was briefed on Sumitomo Electric’s power cable business, manufacturing technologies, and quality control. The factory tour was followed by a discussion attended by Osamu Inoue, President of Sumitomo Electric Industries. The company introduced its activities in the UK, including its new HVDC subsea cable factory at the Port of Nigg in the Scottish Highlands, which officially opened on October 19, 2026. The participants exchanged views on the expansion of the UK electricity transmission grid, the stable supply of power cables, and the strengthening of the UK supply chain.

Great British Energy is a publicly owned energy company established by the UK Government to invest in and develop clean energy and strengthen domestic supply chains. In September 2026, the UK Government also announced plans to establish Great British Grid (GBG) under GBE. GBG will work with electricity network companies to accelerate the expansion and modernization of the UK’s electricity network through public and private investment.

Sumitomo Electric will continue to strengthen its collaboration with the UK Government, GBE, customers, and other stakeholders. Through its advanced power cable technologies, including HVDC solutions, and its manufacturing capabilities in the UK, Sumitomo Electric will contribute to strengthening the UK’s electricity grid, enhancing energy security, and supporting the transition to clean energy.