Terna and IPTO sign on new Italy-Greece interconnector
Terna and IPTO signed the MoU in Rome as part of the Italy-Greece Intergovernmental Summit. Image courtesy Terna
The transmission grid operators for Italy and Greece have signed an MoU for GRITA 2; a new submarine interconnector that will operate alongside the existing interconnection to enhance the integration of their electricity markets and diversify supply sources.
The new HVDC link will become a key infrastructure project supporting existing assets and future network developments for Italy and Greece.
The infrastructure will have a transmission capacity of up to 1,000MW and span approximately 300km in total, including around 240km of subsea cable installed at depths of up to 1,000 meters. It will complement the existing 500MW link that has been operational since 2002.
Terna and Greek transmission system operator IPTO expect to invest approximately €1.9 billion ($2.9 billion) in the project.
Commenting in a release was Giuseppina Di Foggia, chief executive officer and general manager of Terna: “The new submarine power link between Italy and Greece will enhance energy security in southern Italy and facilitate efficient energy procurement by enabling new resources and maintaining energy exchange between the two countries.
“Operating alongside the existing interconnection, which has been in service since 2002, this project will further increase the efficiency of electricity transmission. We firmly believe that an interconnected European power system is key to ensuring a reliable and sustainable grid.”
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On the Italian side, the subsea cable will make landfall in the municipality of Melendugno, while the new converter station will be constructed in the municipality of Galatina, both located in the province of Lecce.
The three-year MoU establishes a joint project governance structure to define the overarching strategy and coordinate activities. Terna and IPTO will also enter into subsequent agreements governing the joint management of tendering processes for cable and converter station procurement, as well as the implementation of the infrastructure.
Said Manos Manousakis, chairman and chief executive officer of IPTO: “Electrical interconnectivity plays a vital role in advancing Europe’s climate goals and clean energy transition.
“The new energy corridor between Greece and Italy will not only expand the capacity for electricity exchange but also bolster energy security and enhance the efficiency of the integrated European electricity market, delivering tangible benefits to consumers in both nations.
“IPTO and Terna, leveraging their extensive technical expertise and strong collaborative relationship, are well-positioned to successfully deliver this strategic infrastructure project.”
The GRITA 2 project is included in the European TSOs’ Ten-Year Network Development Plan 2024 and has been jointly proposed for inclusion in the second list of Projects of Common Interest / Projects of Mutual Interest.
