Prysmian to Create Landmark Submarine Power Link between Italy and Tunisia

Italian cabling giant Prysmian has recently received the notice to proceed on a groundbreaking project: the construction of the submarine power interconnection between Italy and Tunisia. This ambitious endeavor, known as the Elmed project, is set to become the first direct current connection between Europe and Africa, representing a significant milestone in international energy collaboration.

Project Overview

The Elmed project involves a 220-kilometer long power connection running from the Partanna electrical substation in Sicily to the Mlaabi substation located on the Cap Bon Peninsula in Tunisia. Of this total length, an impressive 200 kilometers will be under the sea, emphasizing the technical challenges and innovative solutions needed to bring this project to fruition.

Technical Specifications

This bi-directional link boasts a capacity of 600 megawatts, which is pivotal for both nations. The submarine power cable will be laid at a maximum depth of approximately 800 meters, traversing the Strait of Sicily. This depth adds to the complexity of the operation, requiring specialized vessels and technology.

Collaboration and Investment

The realization of this project involves a significant collaboration between Italy’s transmission system operator (TSO) Terna and Tunisia’s counterpart STEG. In September 2025, these entities selected Prysmian for the construction, highlighting its expertise in submarine cable projects. The contract is valued at approximately €460 million, solidifying Prysmian’s commitment to enhancing its project backlog.

Prysmian’s Commitment to Sustainability

Raul Gil, Executive Vice President of Transmission at Prysmian, spoke about the implications of this project for both countries. He articulated the company’s readiness to leverage Italian resources, including the Arco Felice submarine cable factory located near Naples and advanced monitoring systems based out of Palermo.

Gil emphasized the dual benefits of the project: “We will bring the value of clean renewable generation from Tunisia into the Italian and European energy mix, helping to bring down reliance on fossil fuels.” This perspective underscores the project’s alignment with sustainability goals, adding socio-economic benefits for Tunisia by granting it direct access to Europe’s electricity grid.

The Role of the Monna Lisa

A crucial element of the Elmed project will be the cable laying vessel (CLV) Monna Lisa. Equipped with advanced technology, this vessel will be responsible for the installation of the undersea cable, ensuring that the project adheres to stringent quality and safety standards. Such specialized equipment is essential for executing operations in challenging underwater terrains.

Economic Implications

The interconnection will not only enhance energy reliability for Tunisia but will also contribute to broader economic growth in the region. By connecting to Europe’s electricity grid, Tunisia will enjoy a stable source of power, which can stimulate various sectors, including industrial development and job creation.

The Elmed project embodies a significant leap towards energy interconnectivity between continents, fostering not only energy security but also sustainable economic development for both Italy and Tunisia. As Prysmian moves forward with the construction, the potential impacts—social, economic, and environmental—will be closely watched as a model for future international energy initiatives.