Nexans Initiates Horizontal Directional Drilling in Malta for Electrical Interconnector to Italy
Nexans, a global leader in cable manufacturing, has kicked off horizontal directional drilling (HDD) operations in Malta for the second electrical interconnector to Italy. This significant development marks the commencement of work related to the offshore section of the project, a crucial step in enhancing Malta’s electricity infrastructure.
The importance of HDD in Infrastructure Development
The process of horizontal directional drilling is vital for creating an underground connection between the onshore and offshore segments of the project. This technique allows for the high-voltage cable to be installed between land and sea while safeguarding the coastal area from disruption. By minimizing surface disturbance, HDD not only helps protect the environment but also ensures the project’s feasibility and efficiency.
Geology and Project Confirmation
According to InterConnectMalta, one of the project’s key stakeholders, the HDD process will yield essential insights into the geological conditions below the surface. With a deeper understanding of the terrain, engineers can adapt their strategies to address any challenges that may arise during construction.
Miriam Dalli, Malta’s Energy Minister, emphasized the complexity of the project. “This project involved the manufacturing of a custom-made cable and a wide range of complex engineering activities, extensive planning, and close coordination among various parties,” she noted. This collaborative effort is crucial for delivering infrastructure that serves the nation.
Transitioning to Subsea Cable Installation
Once the HDD works conclude in both Malta and Italy, the installation of the subsea cable can commence, starting from Malta and heading towards Italy. A noteworthy feature of this installation will be the creation of transition joints at both ends. Highly trained specialists will execute these joints, ensuring seamless connectivity between the submarine and land cables.
Perit Reuben Sammit, Manager at InterConnectMalta, remarked on the project’s remarkable execution, stating, “Works of this scale will ultimately deliver critical national infrastructure while remaining almost entirely hidden from view.” He highlighted how advanced technology enables such infrastructure to be constructed with minimal environmental impact. This, however, necessitates extensive studies and meticulous planning.
Manufacturing and Testing of Electrical Cables
Throughout late June, Nexans achieved a significant milestone by completing the manufacturing and factory acceptance testing (FAT) of 100 kilometers of subsea cable earmarked for the interconnector. This phase of the project aligns with the overall timeline, showing Nexans’ commitment to executing the project efficiently.
Specifications of the IC2 Interconnector
The newly designed IC2 interconnector will feature an impressive 122-kilometer long, 225 MW HVAC electrical cable connecting the Terna substation in Ragusa, Sicily, to the Enemalta terminal station in Maghtab, Malta. This new route will be laid in parallel with the existing HVAC cable link, which Nexans also constructed back in 2015.
For this interconnector project, Nexans is responsible for not just the design and manufacturing of 100 kilometers of subsea cable, but also an additional 4 kilometers of spare cable as a contingency measure. Impressively, the FAT was completed just over 13 months after the contract was signed, affirming Nexans’ efficiency and adherence to project timelines.
By leveraging cutting-edge technology and a collaborative approach, Nexans and its partners are setting the groundwork for a sustainable and robust electricity infrastructure that will benefit Malta and strengthen its connections with Italy.