Marine survey will map out the route between Magħtab and Ragusa Seabed mapping has set sail for Malta–Italy Interconnector 2, covering a 50-metre corridor along the 100-kilometre route.
The survey vessel has now completed mobilization and will begin operations from Sicily towards Malta. This operation willbprovide essential data to confirm seabed conditions and ensure that the subsea cable can be installed safely and reliably.
The Detailed Marine Survey (DMS) uses ROV-mounted multi-beam, side-scan, sub-
bottom, image capture, and magnetometer/UXO checks to de-risk the corridor and
confirm burial and protection strategies. It will cover an area of about 5 km², which is
nearly eight times the size of Valletta.
“This survey will provide seabed information needed to chart the safest route and the
best-suited burial plan, which are essential inputs to reduce the risks during offshore
cable laying, which will be carried out by a specialized vessel.” Ismail D’Amato, CEO of
Interconnect Malta said.
NextGeo, a leading player in international marine geoscience and offshore construction,
is carrying out the survey. Meanwhile, Nexans, a global leader in the design and
manufacturing of cable systems and services, is manufacturing the 245kV high-voltage
subsea cable system.
Giovanni Ranieri, CEO of NextGeo, commented: “We are proud to be supporting ICM
and Nexans in this important project by playing an active role in a strategically important
energy infrastructure such as the Malta–Italy Interconnector 2. Through the provision of
high-quality geophysical and geotechnical seabed data along the cable route, we will
contribute to a safe and reliable cable installation.”
“This survey is a vital milestone in preparing for the Malta–Italy Interconnector 2.
Working with NextGeo ensures that we have the most accurate seabed data available,
allowing us to plan the final cable route, installation and protection with confidence and
deliver a high-voltage subsea link that will serve Malta for decades to come,” Pascal
Radue, EVP, PWR-Transmission, Nexans said.
Once completed, IC2 will enhance security of supply, enable greater integration of
renewable energy, and support Malta’s 2030 climate and energy targets.
