Italy’s Ministry of Environment and Energy Security has authorised transmission system operator Terna's Adriatic Link submarine power line, connecting the regions of Le Marche and Abruzzo.

The project is part of the National Integrated Plan for Energy and Climate (PNIEC) and plays a role in the strategic development of Italy's energy infrastructure.

With 1GW of exchange capacity, the 250km Adriatic Link project will feature two submarine cables, each 210km long and laid at a maximum depth of 100m, and two 40km underground cables.

Conversion stations are planned near existing electrical substations in Cepagatti, Abruzzo and Fano in the Le Marche region.

The new infrastructure will boost exchange capacity between central Italy's southern and northern zones.

The project will facilitate the integration and transfer of renewable energy from wind and photovoltaic plants in the south to consumption centres in the north.

Terna's investment in the Adriatic Link is estimated at €1.3bn ($1.39bn).

Terna CEO and general manager Giuseppina Di Foggia stated: “We are very pleased with the approval obtained from the Ministry of Environment and Energy Security for the Adriatic Link, one of the fundamental projects of Terna's ten-year development plan.

“The infrastructure, for which we will invest approximately €1.3bn, will enhance the security and resilience of the national power grid and contribute to achieving the goals set by the PNIEC, confirming Italy's role as a European and Mediterranean energy hub.”

In September 2023, Prysmian Group secured a €630m contract from Terna for the design, supply, installation and commissioning of cables for the project.

Prysmian will supply a high-voltage direct current bipolar cable line, which will be completed in the first half of 2028.