Another milestone towards the implementation of the project for greater security of energy supply in our country

• The second interconnector project has reached another milestone, as the manufacturing and factory testing of the 220kV/132kV autotransformer and two 220kV shunt reactors in Türkiye were completed this week.
• This infrastructure will play an important role in strengthening Malta’s network and improving security of supply.

Testing of the key electrical equipment in Türkiye was completed successfully, as Interconnect Malta’s project reaches another milestone.

This includes an autotransformer that will reduce the voltage from the interconnection’s 220kV to 132kV, in line with the operation of the Maltese grid, as well as shunt reactors that help control voltage by absorbing the reactive energy generated. This reduces losses in the interconnection and improves transmission efficiency.

“The second interconnector is a strategic investment in our future. This project will double our country’s interconnection capacity and will also strengthen our ability to accommodate more renewable energy in our energy mix. It is an important pillar in our ambitious plan to continue increasing renewable energy, both onshore and offshore, while further strengthening resilience and flexibility in this sector in our country.” Minister for the Environment and Energy Dr Miriam Dalli said. 

The dismantling and packaging process of the Transformer and the two Reactors is currently underway, with these components scheduled to depart from the factory around mid-June. From there, they will be transferred to the terminal in Türkiye to be loaded onto a vessel and commence their journey to the port of Pozzallo in Sicily and the Grand Harbour in Malta, respectively.

The installation process of the 220kV reactor in Ragusa, the 220kV/132kV transformer and the 220kV Reactor in Malta is planned to be completed by the end of this summer.

“The completion of manufacturing of an autotransformer and two variable shunt reactors all operating at 220kV, and their successful testing at the factory in Turkey is another step forward for the IC2 project. ICM looks forward to having them delivered, installed and commissioned at Maghtab and Ragusa terminal stations ahead of their energization in due course.” Dr. Inġ. Joseph Vassallo, Divisional Manager at ICM, said.

The works related to the transformer and the reactors form part of a broader chain of activities within the IC2 project. These works involve several companies, including the main contractor, AG Installations, which was awarded this contract following an open call procedure and engaged various subcontractors to support its execution. Among the principal companies involved is BEST, which is responsible for the design, manufacturing, and testing of the respective transformer and reactors’ components, as well as ‘SIMI Trasporti’, which is responsible for the transportation of the equipment from BEST’s factory in Türkiye to Ragusa and Magħtab respectively, in addition to the positioning of the transformer and the reactors in their final locations.

IC2 serves as a cornerstone of Malta’s energy vision, designed to double Malta’s interconnection capacity and significantly enhance security of supply whilst transitioning to sustainability. 

This €300 million investment has been approved for ERDF funding under the priority “Promoting a clean and just energy transition” and contributes directly to smart and stable energy systems. The project has been recognised as an “Operation of Strategic Importance” in the 2021–2027 Programme, with €261 million allocated in European funding.