Malta’s second interconnector ready for cable-laying later this year

Malta’s second Interconnector (IC2) has been manufactured, tested, and is now ready for installation later this year.

According to a statement released by the Energy Ministry on Monday, the 103km subsea cable took a year to manufacture at Nexans’ facility in the United States and is now ready to be loaded onto a cable-laying vessel.

The statement said the milestone was reached after the marine route was cleared of obstructions last week, allowing cable-laying works to proceed safely.

“This achievement marks a major step forward in the delivery of the IC2,” Energy Minister Miriam Dalli said, describing the project as an investment aimed at enhancing Malta’s electricity interconnection with mainland Europe, increasing resilience, and supporting the integration of renewable energy.

“The completion of the marine route clearance campaign and the launch of the state-of-the-art cable-laying vessel provide a stepping stone to proceed confidently with the installation phase later this year,” Interconnect Malta Divisional Manager Joseph Vassallo said.

The €300 million project was approved for ERDF funding, with €261 million allocated in EU funds.