Gozo cable repairs progress as teams work to restore supply
Enemalta teams worked through the night on the two major cable faults affecting electricity supply in Gozo, with repair works under way this morning and more generators being deployed to provide temporary supply.
At Xewkija, where the first cable fault was identified last night, crews have excavated the damaged section of cable and jointing repair works have started. Specialist cable jointers are in Gozo overseeing the repair.
Work is also progressing on the second fault, which was located along a section of the cable route on Comino. Excavation equipment is being transported by barge and will be put into operation once it reaches the site.
Enemalta’s engineering team explained that locating and repairing faults on underground high-voltage cables can be a complex exercise because the cables extend for several kilometres.
“Once the fault is identified and the cable exposed, engineers then need to establish how far the damage extends before the affected section can be removed. Crucial tests also have to be carried out to establish if there is any moisture inside the cable as this could compromise its insulation and the integrity of the repair once electricity is restored.
“If the moisture test is passed, the damaged section can be removed and jointing works can begin. The repaired cable will then undergo further testing before it can safely be brought back into service,” the team said.
As repair works continue on both faults, technical crews remain on site and additional resources are being deployed to support the repair operation.
“Enemalta recognises the considerable discomfort being experienced by residents, businesses and visitors who remain without electricity, particularly in the current heat. Our immediate focus remains on restoring supply as quickly and safely as possible,” Enemalta said.
Enemalta will continue to provide updates as the repair operation moves forward.
