Preparations for the second interconnector have reached a new stage as Interconnect Malta
(ICM), the entity leading this project, is finalising the tender for the procurement of the subsea cable between Malta and Italy, estimated to cost around €185 million.
ICM has issued a Prior Information Notice (PIN) for the tender as part of this process. The PIN is a procurement stage where potential suppliers are pre-advised about an upcoming
procurement opportunity. In this case, the PIN will be followed by an open-call procedure for the subsea cable.
This tender is being co-financed by the European Union under the European Regional
Development Funding Programme 2021-2027. This follows a positive assessment by the
Project Selection Committee of the project’s application submitted by Interconnect Malta.
ICM has also issued a Prior Information Notice related in preparation for the tender related to the Supply and Installation of a 220kV switchgear, fire suppression system, fire walls at Ragusa, and the upgrade of the control system.
Miriam Dalli, Minister for the Environment, Energy and the Regeneration of the Grand Harbour, explained that the second Interconnector is a critical project in Malta’s plan to ensure Malta’s climate targets are reached whilst addressing the growth in energy demand attributable to a growing economy and transport electrification.
“The second Interconnector will not only increase the capacity of Malta’s generation by a further 200MW but will enable the country to include further renewables in its energy mix. This IC2 project is an enabler of Malta’s ambitious renewable energy plans, both onshore and offshore, as this interconnection will provide a suitable buffer for the intermittency of renewables,” the Minister said.
The second interconnector project will see the laying of a 121-kilometre, high-voltage
alternating current electrical cable interconnection, including a 99-kilometre submarine cable, operating at 220 kV between Malta and Italy.
“This project of national importance will consolidate the security of supply by doubling Malta’s current electricity interconnection with the European network. It will also empower increased investments in renewable energy systems by providing the necessary reserve capacity to accommodate Malta’s growing grid-connected renewable energy sources, contributing to the country’s climate objectives, for a better quality of life,” ICM CEO Ing Ismail D’Amato said.
