Strategic Energy Alliance Enters Acceleration Phase
The Greece–Italy energy interconnection is entering a fast-track phase, marking the start of one of the most significant infrastructure projects in the wider Mediterranean region. Greek TSO ADMIE and Italian TSO TERNA held the first official meeting of the Steering and Governance Committee in Rome, mapping out the next milestones toward the launch of seabed preliminary studies and technical planning for the new GRITA2 interconnection.
The partnership between the two countries was formally sealed last May with a Memorandum of Understanding signed in the presence of Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni — a clear signal of the project’s strategic weight for both nations and the European energy system.
A Landmark for Europe’s Energy Map
The GRITA2 project, with a capacity of 1,000 MW, will act as a new energy bridge between Greece and Italy, tripling existing electricity exchange capacity. The HVDC subsea interconnection will significantly improve grid stability, boost cross-border energy flows, and facilitate the integration of more renewable energy sources into Southern Europe’s networks.
The project is already included in the ENTSO-E TYNDP 2024 and is a candidate for inclusion in the EU’s 2nd PCI list (Projects of Common Interest), which would make it eligible for European funding support.
From Seabed Studies to Cable Laying
The next stages include:
- Conducting preliminary seabed surveys to finalize the cable route.
- Drafting the technical specifications and commercial requirements.
- Launching tenders for the construction of converter stations and HVDC cable supply.
- Laying the submarine cable and building the necessary onshore infrastructure in both countries.
Once procurement is completed, the project will move into the construction phase, marking a new chapter in regional energy cooperation.
Geopolitical Dimensions: Greece as a Regional Energy Hub
This interconnection is not just an engineering project — it is a strategic geopolitical move. Greece is strengthening its role as a Southeast European energy hub, connecting Eastern Mediterranean and Balkan energy markets with the EU’s core through Italy.
At a time when Europe is pursuing energy diversification and security, GRITA2 adds strategic value: it reinforces grid resilience, creates new opportunities for cross-border energy trading, and enables greater renewable penetration. It also enhances the geopolitical standing of both countries within the European energy architecture.
A European Green Deal Project
The Greece–Italy energy bridge aligns directly with the EU Green Deal objectives and the bloc’s decarbonization goals. Its potential classification as a PCI will accelerate development, reduce costs through EU co-financing, and strengthen cross-border energy cooperation.
GRITA2 is far more than a 1,000 MW subsea power link. It is a cornerstone energy and geopolitical project that elevates Greece and Italy’s role in the EU’s energy landscape. Against the backdrop of shifting energy dynamics and the green transition, this electric bridge will connect two key Mediterranean economies, reinforcing Europe’s energy security and resilience.
Source: pagenews.gr