VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – Malta’s first electricity interconnector with Sicily will be temporarily switched off for around 12 days as safety measures are carried out alongside construction of the second link.

Interconnect Malta and Enemalta said the shutdown of IC1 commenced today and is necessary as heavy machinery will operate close to existing 220kV overhead lines at the Ragusa Terminal Station.

The works form part of the €300 million Second Interconnector project, which is nearing completion.

Recent works at Ragusa include the installation of a fire tank and pumps, while a new 240 MVAr shunt reactor and its fire protection walls have also been completed.

Further civil works will now take place, including modifications to the IC1 overhead line support structure to accommodate new hybrid gas-insulated switchgear.

A 220kV land cable will also be routed underground between the switchgear and the reactor.

Authorities said the shutdown is intended to protect workers and existing infrastructure while the high-risk works are carried out.

The shutdown is being coordinated by Interconnect Malta, Enemalta, Terna Energy Solutions and Italy’s transmission system operator.

During the works, Malta’s electricity demand will be met entirely through local generation, with authorities saying sufficient capacity is available to maintain security and stability of supply.

Energy Minister Miriam Dalli said progress on the second interconnector represented another important milestone in delivering critical infrastructure for Malta’s future energy needs.

Interconnect Malta CEO Ismail D’Amato said the work presented significant technical and safety challenges because of the presence of live equipment, requiring close coordination between all parties.

Enemalta executive chairman Ryan Fava said the second interconnector would build on the first link, commissioned in 2015, and strengthen Malta’s long-term energy security.

The second interconnector will comprise a 122km, 225MW HVAC connection between Maghtab and Ragusa through a 245kV submarine cable.

Once completed, it will double Malta’s electricity interconnection capacity and support greater integration of renewable energy.

The project is co-financed by the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund, with EU funding increased to €261 million following the mid-term review of the 2021-2027 cohesion policy programme.

Project officials say the investment is expected to reduce Malta’s reliance on locally generated fossil-fuel electricity and contribute to the country’s long-term decarbonisation goals.

–  Photo Archive Malta Ministry for Energy –
(ITALPRESS).

Source: medNews