Italy undersea electrical interconnection projects

Infrastructure projects to enhance electrical connectivity via undersea cables in Italian waters have progressed through different regional scopes.

In the Strait of Messina, Terna has begun installing 380 kV alternating current underwater cables for the Bolano-Annunziata power line. This project, executed by Prysmian, aims to increase energy exchange capacity between Calabria and Sicily by up to 2,000 MW and facilitate renewable energy integration. The operation involves laying three 7.5 km cables at depths of up to 250 meters.

Separately, the Elmed project is advancing to connect Tunisia and Italy across the Strait of Sicily. This 600 megawatt bidirectional link, estimated to cost 1.42 billion euros, has entered a decisive implementation phase. Hitachi Energy has been contracted to build conversion stations in Tunisia and Sicily, while Prysmian has been awarded the contract to install the 200-kilometer undersea cable. The project is intended to enhance energy security and renewable energy exports, with commissioning projected between 2028 and 2030.