Italy and Greece are taking another step towards the development of clean energy infrastructure. The two countries are planning to use new undersea cables, some as long as 250 kilometers, to facilitate the sharing of clean energy. This ambitious project aims to enhance energy connectivity and renewable energy trade between the two nations, setting an example for sustainable energy collaboration across borders.
A Vision for a Cleaner Energy Future
The energy landscape is rapidly evolving, with a growing emphasis on sustainability and reducing carbon emissions. As the world shifts towards clean energy sources, projects like the one initiated by Italy and Greece are crucial in advancing this global transition. The European Union’s commitment to becoming carbon-neutral by 2050 further underscores the significance of such initiatives.
Italian grid operator Terna has initiated a public consultation for the GR.ITA 2 project, which involves the construction of submarine interconnection cables valued at 750 million euros. These undersea cables will link Italy and Greece through two 250-kilometer-long submarine cables, each with a capacity of up to 1,000 MW. Additionally, there will be two land-based direct current (DC) cables, each stretching over 50 kilometers, connecting Greece’s Tesprozia to Italy’s Melendugno and onwards to Galatina, where a new conversion station will be linked to the Italian national network via underground alternating current (AC) cables. Terna, however, has not yet provided a specific completion date for this substantial renewable energy project.
Powering the Clean Energy Revolution
With the capacity to transmit up to 1,000 MW of energy, the undersea cables hold the potential to significantly impact the clean energy sector in the region. This interconnection will allow for efficient sharing of electricity generated from renewable sources, such as wind, solar, and hydropower. Italy and Greece’s commitment to expanding their clean energy infrastructure not only benefits their nations but also contributes to the broader global shift towards sustainable energy.
The project will play a crucial role in promoting renewable energy sources in the region. These submarine cables will enable secure management of the entire southern area’s energy systems and facilitate efficient energy supply. This is primarily attributed to the ability to connect new energy sources to the market and maintain energy exchange between the two countries, even during maintenance operations.
Plan of the undersea cable between Italy and Greece | photo: Terna
The Path to a Sustainable Future
The GR.ITA 2 project is a testament to Italy and Greece’s dedication to a sustainable future. By increasing the capacity for energy exchange and allowing a seamless flow of clean energy between the two countries, the project contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the promotion of eco-conscious practices.
Terna has stated that the project’s proposal will be presented at a series of events open to the public and all relevant stakeholders scheduled from October 13th to 25th. The primary goal of this project is to increase the interconnection capacity between Italy and Greece. Currently, there is only one undersea cable with a capacity of 500 MW, which became operational in 2022. The new initiative seeks to significantly boost the energy exchange capabilities between these two countries, promoting a sustainable energy future. This innovative endeavor will set an example for further collaborations in the field of renewable energy, highlighting the importance of cross-border sharing of clean energy resources.
Leading the Way in Clean Energy Collaboration
As the world strives to reduce its carbon footprint and transition to cleaner energy sources, Italy and Greece’s collaborative efforts mark them as pioneers in this global shift. Their commitment to undersea cables that facilitate clean energy sharing serves as a model for neighboring countries and regions seeking to embrace sustainable energy practices.
The success of the GR.ITA 2 project could potentially lead to similar initiatives across Europe and beyond. The undersea cables not only strengthen the energy infrastructure of the countries involved but also signify a more significant global move towards environmental responsibility. As these projects come to fruition, the world witnesses a promising step towards a cleaner, greener, and more sustainable energy future. Italy and Greece’s visionary approach may well inspire other nations to embark on similar clean energy journeys.
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