Summary:

In a 10 May 2024 communication, the Italian Ministry of Environment and Energy Security authorized the commencement of construction on the ELMED undersea cable that will connect Italy and Tunisia. 

A press release from Terna, the Italian electricity grid operator that will partner with Tunisia’s STEG on the construction, described the most recent announcement from the Italian government as the “definitive authorization” for the project.  

The project involves a 224 km connector, with about 200 km running under the Mediterranean Sea between Partanna, Italy and , Tunisia with portions reaching a depth of 800 meters. 

The project is estimated to cost as much as €850 million, with financing from the World Bank and the European Commission already secured. 

Outlook: 

The ELMED connection between Italy and Tunisia is another signal of Italian commitment to investing in and with Tunisia as part of Italy’s new “Mattei Plan.” 

With the relationship between the two countries under a global microscope as an epicenter of the irregular migration issue, Italy has continued to show signs that it plans to deepen its partnership with Tunisia. 

Progress on ELMED promises to help Italy press forward with a vision of becoming an energy “hub” for Europe, building relationships and infrastructure that will position Italy to serve as an energy gateway between Africa and Europe.  

The deal also looks to benefit Tunisia by creating infrastructure that will support Tunisia’s ability to further invest in renewable energy projects that can target European energy customers. 

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