Albania, Italy, and UAE agree on undersea power transmission line
Photo: PM Edi Rama and Sultan Ahmed Al-Jaber
Albania, Italy, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have agreed to build an undersea power transmission line connecting Albania and Italy. The UAE will support this project, enhancing energy connectivity between the countries.
Why is this important: Previously, the parties had only expressed a desire to advance the project. Now, a political decision has been made, and technical discussions will begin between the transmission system operators.
Context: Prime Minister Edi Rama met with Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, UAE’s Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, during the UN General Assembly in New York. Rama announced progress on two major projects: the creation of a KESH & MAZDAR joint energy company and the undersea transmission line with Italy.
- The planned undersea power line will connect Vlorë in Albania with Bari in Italy. It has an estimated cost of over 1 billion euros. The line aims to link Albania’s and Italy’s energy systems, giving Albanian producers direct access to the Italian market.
- The idea of an undersea connection dates back 45 years. Initial studies explored connecting Albania’s 220 KV system with Italy’s. Although revisited several times, it has now reached a new stage of commitment.
- Albania currently has energy transmission lines with Greece, Montenegro, and North Macedonia. A direct line to Italy would open access to one of Europe’s biggest energy markets, offering significant opportunities for Albanian producers.
What comes next: Technical discussions between the transmission operators will address details needed to implement the project. They will focus on technical, financial, and regulatory issues to bring this infrastructure to life.
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