Italy, Albania, and UAE Forge Path to Clean Energy with €1 Billion Adriatic Interconnection

 In a groundbreaking initiative aimed at bolstering renewable energy and regional cooperation, Italy, Albania, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have signed an agreement worth over €1 billion to establish a subsea energy interconnection across the Adriatic Sea. This strategic project is set to enhance energy security, facilitate clean energy distribution, and strengthen economic ties within the Mediterranean region.


A Visionary Energy Collaboration

The project will see the construction of a 430-kilometer subsea power link connecting the Albanian port city of Vlore to the southern Italian region of Puglia. Once completed, this infrastructure will enable the efficient transfer of renewable energy from Albania to Italy and other Balkan nations, fostering regional energy integration.

Speaking at the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni described the initiative as a significant move toward modernizing energy networks. She highlighted its potential to make power systems in the region "more efficient and competitive," addressing long-standing challenges in energy distribution.

Partnership and Expertise

This trilateral collaboration involves the participation of key stakeholders:

  • Terna, Italy’s grid operator,
  • Taqa, the UAE’s National Energy Company,
  • The government of Albania, represented by Prime Minister Edi Rama.

By combining Italy’s advanced energy market, the UAE’s leadership in renewable energy technologies, and Albania’s abundant natural resources, the project aims to create a model of energy collaboration for the region.

Accelerating Albania’s Renewable Energy Growth

Albania has emerged as a growing player in the renewable energy sector, increasing its capacity by 500 MW over the past two years. The Adriatic energy link will unlock Albania’s ability to export surplus clean energy, solidifying its role as a regional energy hub.

Belinda Balluku, Albania’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure and Energy, emphasized the transformative potential of the project, which aligns with the country’s commitment to sustainable energy development.

Enhancing Mediterranean Energy Security

The interconnection is part of a broader effort to strengthen energy security in the Mediterranean. It complements existing initiatives, such as Italy’s electricity link with Tunisia, aimed at improving power flow capacity across the region.

UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology Sultan Al Jaber underscored the significance of this project, calling it a "game-changer" for Mediterranean energy cooperation. He noted that the agreement embodies the UAE’s dedication to fostering global partnerships that drive sustainability.

Operational Timeline and Future Goals

The project is expected to be operational within three years, marking a rapid timeline for such a critical infrastructure development. In addition to improving energy resilience, it will promote sustainable growth by integrating renewable energy sources into the broader European grid.

A Model for Green Collaboration

This agreement serves as a testament to the power of international partnerships in addressing global challenges. By aligning national strengths and leveraging renewable energy resources, Italy, Albania, and the UAE are charting a new course for sustainable development and energy diversification.

As the Adriatic energy link takes shape, it sets a benchmark for other nations seeking to enhance cross-border energy cooperation and accelerate the transition to a cleaner, greener future.

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