Italy's energy infrastructure is undergoing a significant transformation with the commencement of the Tyrrhenian Link project, a monumental subsea cable initiative connecting Sicily and Sardinia. Spearheaded by Terna and executed in collaboration with Nexans, this ambitious endeavor is setting a new global benchmark by achieving an unprecedented installation depth of 2,150 meters below sea level. The Tyrrhenian Link comprises two high-voltage direct current (HVDC) subsea cables, each engineered to transmit 1,000 MW of power across approximately 970 kilometers. The western section, currently under installation, spans about 480 kilometers and is being laid in two phases, with completion anticipated by September 2025 and December 2025 respectively. This strategic infrastructure represents a substantial investment of €3.7 billion and is pivotal to Italy's energy transition.
The project is designed to enhance grid efficiency and security, thereby bolstering the integration of renewable energy sources, which are increasingly prevalent in Sicily and Sardinia. The Tyrrhenian Link is expected to be fully operational by 2028. Beyond its technical achievements, the project incorporates environmental stewardship, including measures such as the careful transplanting of seagrass to safeguard marine ecosystems. This reflects a growing awareness in large-scale infrastructure development to balance progress with ecological preservation.
The advancement of HVDC subsea cable technology is crucial for the clean energy transition, enabling the efficient transmission of power from renewable sources to where it is needed. Europe, particularly the UK, is at the forefront of HVDC cable innovation, with numerous projects underway and planned. The Tyrrhenian Link's record-breaking depth underscores the continuous evolution and increasing capabilities within this critical sector of the energy industry. The project's success will not only reinforce Italy's energy grid but also serve as a testament to the sophisticated engineering required to connect regions through challenging underwater environments, paving the way for future advancements in global energy connectivity.