Crete’s electricity interconnection with Attica saw the opening of a new chapter in Greece’s energy landscape on Saturday, ushering in a transformative era for the country’s largest island.
The trial operation of the Attica-Crete electrical interconnection successfully commenced through the High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) project of Ariadne Interconnection, a subsidiary of the Independent Power Transmission Operator (ADMIE).
The trial period for this monumental link will be extended to the summer months during which Crete will become fully integrated into the National Electricity System. This integration is far more than simply a connection, officials said. It represents a historic milestone that eliminates the electrical isolation of Crete, transforming it from an energy-dependent island into a strategically vital energy hub.
The immediate benefits are multifaceted, encompassing significant environmental improvements and substantial economic advantages.
New second line of electricity to Crete
While Crete’s first electrical interconnection was established in 2021 with the Peloponnese, utilizing alternating current technology, this new, second line with Attica brings unprecedented strength and resilience. With a capacity of 1 GW and a budget of 1.1 billion euros, this direct current link fully integrates Crete into the national grid, enhancing the island’s energy sufficiency.
Crucially, this connection also significantly boosts the utilization of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) across the island, aligning with Greece’s commitment to decarbonization.
The project features 500 kV submarine cables buried at depths of up to 1,200 meters, making it one of the deepest electrical interconnections globally.
The advanced Voltage Source Converter (VSC) technology employed in its Converter Stations ensures optimal efficiency and stability. Major international and Greek companies, including industry giants such as Siemens, TERNA, Nexans, Prysmian, NKT, and Hellenic Cables, were instrumental in delivering this complex infrastructure.
The construction of this project was completed in a record-breaking 4.5 years. Officials say that this timeline is particularly impressive when compared to similar European projects, which typically require over seven years for completion.
Crete electricity interconnection a “technical feat”
Expressing the profound significance of the project, Minister of Environment and Energy Stavros Papastavrou stated:
“We are inaugurating a new era on the energy map of Greece. The undersea energy bridge that connects Crete with the mainland constitutes a national success and a technological leap. Crete becomes a central pillar of the energy transition and Greece’s strategic position in the Eastern Mediterranean is strengthened.”
Manos Manousakis, President and CEO of ADMIE, hailed the achievement as a “technical feat” and the realization of “a vision of decades.”
He further elaborated on this, saying:
“In addition to the construction of the project, its operation encountered significant challenges, as the tests were carried out in conditions of high RES penetration and with absolute safety for the electrical system. The successful implementation of the project and the know-how we have gained give us even greater confidence for the next electrical interconnections that we are planning, domestic and international.”
The Attica-Crete electrical interconnection received substantial financial backing, co-financed by the Operational Program YMEPERAA (ESRF 2014-2020) and the “Environment and Climate Change” of the ESRF 2021-2027.
European and national resources have covered a significant 535.5 million euros of the total cost, a contribution that will directly translate into a notable reduction in energy costs for Greek consumers.
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