Scheduled Maintenance for Second Interconnector Development
Malta's main electricity interconnector (IC1) will be temporarily shut down for three days as Enemalta and Interconnect Malta carry out critical maintenance work on infrastructure related to the development of a second undersea cable link to the European grid [1][3]. The shutdown is necessary to allow for the safe rerouting of cables connected to the existing interconnector, which forms part of a wider infrastructure project aimed at strengthening Malta's energy system [3].
Despite the temporary closure, Enemalta has reassured the public that electricity supply will remain stable throughout the maintenance period [1][3]. During the shutdown, demand will be fully met through local generation at the Delimara Power Station, which has sufficient capacity to support national needs [2][3]. The company has emphasised its preparedness to maintain continuous power delivery to households and businesses throughout the maintenance window [1].
Infrastructure Upgrades and European Grid Integration
The maintenance work is being carried out in coordination with Interconnect Malta, which is overseeing the development of a second interconnector (IC2) [3]. As part of the broader project, Italian firm Terna Energy Solutions Srl will begin installing hybrid switchgear in Ragusa, Sicily, which has necessitated adjustments to existing infrastructure and the temporary shutdown of IC1 [3].
The shutdown will take place during what authorities described as "suitable operational windows" to minimise disruption to national energy supply, although specific dates have not yet been announced [3]. For many Maltese households and businesses that rely on consistent electricity supply, Enemalta's proactive communication about the works and contingency arrangements suggests the company has made comprehensive preparations to ensure that the three-day closure does not leave residents or commercial operations without power [1].
Second Interconnector Project Details
The second interconnector project includes a 122km, 225MW cable linking Magħtab to Ragusa and is co-financed by the European Union [3]. Energy Minister Miriam Dalli stated that the project forms part of a broader strategy to strengthen Malta's energy framework, alongside upgrades to distribution networks and investment in large-scale battery storage for renewable energy [3].
Once completed, the second interconnector will significantly increase Malta's capacity to import electricity from the European grid, reducing reliance on locally generated fossil fuels [3]. This development marks a key step in Malta's long-term energy strategy, with the second interconnector expected to enhance both security of supply and flexibility within the national grid [3]. The infrastructure upgrades represent ongoing efforts to improve Malta's energy resilience as the island continues to diversify its power sources [1].