The Second Interconnector project (IC2) continues to progress steadily towards completion. Over recent month works at the Ragusa Terminal Station continued at a fast pace. A fire tank with associated fire pumps have been installed on the civil foundations constructed for the project, while the installation and assembly of the new 240 MVAr shunt reactor has been completed, including the construction of its fire protection walls. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Interconnect Malta is now proceeding to a further phase of civil works at Ragusa Terminal Station. These works will require the temporary isolation of IC1, as heavy machinery will be operating in close proximity to the existing 220 kVn overhead lines. In addition, modifications are required to the IC1 overhead line support structure to accommodate a new hybrid gas insulated switchgear, which will enable the new reactor to be connected to either interconnector as operational requirements dictate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The works will also involve routing of 220kV land cable from the switchgear to the reactor in underground ducts that have been installed in preparation for this shutdown which is scheduled to commence on the 5th October and expected to last around twelve days.
This shutdown is an essential safety measure to safeguard the health, safety and welfare of personnel working in a high-risk electrical environment. It will also protect the existing interconnector infrastructure, ensuring that the work can be undertaken without compromising its integrity or safety.
The shutdown and associated works are being coordinated between Interconnect Malta, Enemalta, Terna Energy Solutions and the Italian Transmission System Operator.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These works have been planned well in advance to support the continued implementation of the Second Interconnector project. Enemalta has worked closely with Interconnect Malta, Terna Energy Solutions and the Italian Transmission System Operator to ensure all necessary preparatory measures are in place ahead of the temporary shutdown. While the works are being carried out, Malta\u2019s electricity demand will be fully met through local generation resources, with sufficient capacity available to ensure the continued stability and security of
supply. The works are also taking place against the backdrop of increasing electricity demand, including the record levels experienced during the summer months, further highlighting the importance of strategic investments that strengthen the resilience and flexibility of the national electricity system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe steady progress being achieved on the second interconnector demonstrates Government’s commitment to delivering the critical energy infrastructure required for Malta’s future. The works completed to date in Ragusa, together with the activities planned in the coming days, mark another important milestone towards the project’s completion and underline the significant effort being undertaken on both sides of the interconnection.\u201d said Miriam Dalli, Minister for Energy, Environment and the Regeneration of the Grand Harbour.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Following the re-energization of IC1, additional works will continue at the terminal station. This carefully phased programme has been developed in close coordination with Enemalta to ensure the efficient execution of works while minimizing disruption to the existing infrastructure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cCarrying out major civil works within a terminal station with live equipment in proximity presents unique technical and safety challenges that require strict adherence to operational procedures, meticulous planning, and close coordination with Enemalta, the Italian Transmission System Operator, and our various contractors. We would like to thank all the stakeholders involved, including engineers, contractors, and their subcontractors, for their continued collaboration and commitment in ensuring that works are delivered safely and efficiently. The progress achieved to date in Ragusa demonstrates the collective effort of all parties involved and brings IC2 another step closer to completion supporting the country’s long-term energy ambitions.\u201d In\u0121. Ismail D\u2019Amato, Interconnect Malta CEO said
Enemalta Executive Chairman In\u0121. Ryan Fava said: \u201cThe first interconnector, which was developed and commissioned by Enemalta in 2015, marked a transformative milestone for Malta\u2019s energy sector by establishing a direct connection to the European electricity grid and significantly strengthening the country\u2019s security of supply.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Second Interconnector builds on that achievement and represents a critical investment in Malta\u2019s long-term energy strategy. As electricity demand continues to grow and the energy sector evolves to accommodate a greater share of renewable energy, investments in resilient and flexible infrastructure become increasingly important. Enemalta has sufficient local generation capacity available to meet national electricity demand throughout the execution of these works, ensuring the continued reliability, stability and security of Malta\u2019s
electricity system.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
IC2 plays a pivotal role in the Government\u2019s energy strategy and is identified as a planned project under the \u2018Energy, Climate & Environmental Transformation\u2019 priority of Malta\u2019s Vision 2050. The project is designed to double Malta\u2019s electricity interconnection capacity and strengthen national security of supply. By reducing dependence on locally generated fossil fuel power and enabling greater uptake of renewable energy, IC2 will contribute to Malta\u2019s ongoing green transition.
The project is co-financed by the European Union through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), supporting Malta\u2019s efforts to build a more resilient and sustainable energy system.<\/p>\n