Italian DNO expands deployment of LoviSil® transition splices across its network

One of Italy’s largest distribution network operators (DNOs) and a key standard-setter within the market is further expanding the use of Lovink’s LoviSil® transition splices. Following a successful trial period, the utility has recently placed another substantial order to support wider deployment across its network.

The collaboration has been developed in phases. Over the past two years, activities began with installer training programmes and pilot installations, primarily in Southern Italy. In this region, extremely high temperatures regularly place cable connections under significant thermal stress, potentially resulting in failures, outages and even blackouts. These challenges are now increasingly affecting Northern Italy as well.

The positive results achieved during the initial pilot projects have led to growing demand from regional operating units across the country. As a result, the application of the LoviSil® solution is evolving from a regional trial into a large-scale rollout across the Italian electricity network.

A technical solution for existing networks

As part of this project, Lovink is supplying LoviSil® transition splices for the 24 kV network. The transition splice has been specifically developed for connecting three-core PILC cables, which are still widely used throughout Italy.

The solution complies with the utility’s technical specifications and is supplied with a mechanical shear-off connector suitable for cable cross-sections of 185 mm² and 240 mm². This enables Lovink to address the demand for reliable, long-lasting connections within existing network infrastructure, where traditional cable types continue to play an important role.

Further expansion throughout Italy

The agreement underlines the utility’s confidence in the quality of the products, the technical support provided and the collaboration with Lovink and its partners.

“What makes this collaboration particularly significant is that it addresses a current and growing challenge within the Italian electricity network. The combination of high temperatures and ageing infrastructure requires reliable and proven solutions. The fact that our cable splices are now being deployed throughout Italy confirms the confidence in both our technology and our approach,” said Godelieve Cooymans, Key Account Manager Italy at Lovink.