Enemalta is preparing to start using the Malta-Sicily interconnector as the last testing phase of the cables gets under way.
The 120-kilometre interconnector – a project partly-funded by the EU – will for the first time connect Malta’s electricity grid with continental Europe.
The company yesterday said its engineers have since January been “closely monitoring” different phases of the interconnector’s testing by Nexans, the contractor entrusted with this project.
All components of the system, including the control, monitoring and communication equipment between the two terminals at Magħtab in Malta and Ragusa in Sicily have been individually tested.
120km
- the length of the interconnector
Over the past week, Enemalta reviewed the test results and approved the beginning of the final tests that are scheduled for the coming weeks.
“Enemalta is analysing the dynamics of this development and is taking several precautions to minimise any risk to the Maltese grid.
“The company’s electricity generation and distribution sections will be implementing additional safeguards to ensure customers are not adversely affected by these tests,” Enemalta said in a statement, noting that Nexans engineers will be in Malta and Sicily to assist in the coordination of the first synchronisation.
According to Jonathan Scerri, Enemalta’s executive director generation and distribution, the Malta-Sicily interconnector is the longest submarine high voltage alternating current (HVAC) interconnection system of its capacity and voltage level in the world.
The interconnector has a 120-kilometre HVAC system, transferring 200MW of electricity. In Sicily, the interconnector is linked to the Italian network in the Terna substation in Ragusa. The submarine cable lands in Malta at Qalet Marku, Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq and transmits electricity to the distribution network through Enemalta’s new terminal station at Magħtab.
Instead of totally depending on the electricity generated locally through power stations, the interconnector provides the possibility for Malta to start importing electricity from Europe.
“Energising this cable is not only a new experience for Enemalta but also a challenging and exciting development to the entire electrical engineering profession.
“The contractor’s experts have commissioned several similar systems in the past, but given its characteristics, they too are keenly following the final testing of Malta’s interconnector,” Mr Scerri said.