Talks advance on Europe-Middle East electricity interconnector
The Great Sea Interconnector, linking Europe and the Middle East via Greece and Cyprus, will span 1,240 km and reach depths of 3,000 metres. Completion is targeted for 2030.
Cyprus and Greece are making progress in talks about the creation of a high-speed electric cable network, known as the Great Sea Interconnector, linking Europe to the Middle East through the Mediterranean seabed. The project aims to connect transmission networks from Greece via Crete and Cyprus to Israel, with an estimated cost of €2.4 billion, of which €1.9 billion covers the Cyprus section.
Once complete, the interconnector will be the world’s longest and deepest high-voltage direct current (HVDC) cable, stretching 1,240 km and descending to 3,000 metres. The European Union has expressed its willingness to finance part of the project, which is expected to be completed by 2030. However, overlapping jurisdictional claims in the Mediterranean, involving Greece, Cyprus, and Turkey, could present future challenges.
Cyprus has sought clarity on its financial contribution and the potential impact of geopolitical risks, particularly concerning Turkey’s opposition, which could lead to delays and additional costs. Deputy government spokesperson Yiannis Antoniou said discussions have made progress, and the issue may be raised in an upcoming cabinet meeting.
The matter is also set to be discussed during a meeting between Cypriot President Nikos Christodoulides and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis in Athens later this week.
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