The Malta-Italy Interconnector is a submarine power cable that links the power grids of Malta and Italy. The cable runs approximately 190km between Ragusa in Sicily and the power station at Delimara in Malta. The interconnector was completed in December 2014 and began commercial operations in April 2015. It has a capacity of 200MW and operates at a voltage of 220kV.
The interconnector was built by Enemalta Corporation, the Maltese state-owned energy company, and TERNA Rete Italia, the Italian transmission system operator. The project was partially financed by the European Union's Connecting Europe Facility.
The Malta-Italy Interconnector provides Malta with a vital connection to the European grid, ensuring a secure and reliable supply of electricity to the island nation. The interconnector also supports the development of renewable energy sources in Malta, providing a means of exporting excess energy to Italy.
The submarine cable is designed to withstand the harsh marine environment, with a protective layer made of high-density polyethylene and steel armouring. The cable is buried in the sea bed to protect it from potential damage caused by fishing and shipping activities.
Overall, the Malta-Italy Interconnector is a significant infrastructure project that plays a crucial role in ensuring a stable supply of electricity for Malta and supporting the growth of renewable energy in the region.