Clean Energy Link to Connect Algerian Sahara with Italy

Italy has commenced a major public consultation regarding a significant submarine electrical connection project with Algeria. The initiative, named "AI-Link" (Algerian-Italian Link), is spearheaded by the Italian company ZHERO, a project partner, and aims to transport clean electrical energy produced from renewable sources in the Algerian Sahara to Italy. This strategic infrastructure is envisioned to deliver at least 10 terawatt-hours of electricity annually, capable of powering approximately four million Italian households.

The project involves constructing facilities in the Algerian Sahara to generate at least 5,000 megawatts from renewable sources, coupled with a 900-kilometer undersea cable across the Mediterranean. This cable is designed for a transmission capacity of up to 2,000 megawatts, connecting to Italy's electricity grid near a Terna power station in the Liguria region. The current phase of public consultation includes informational and deliberative meetings with citizens and local authorities in the Italian areas affected by the project's route, allowing for discussion on initial designs and feedback collection.

The consultation process, which commenced with an online meeting on October 16, includes six in-person sessions scheduled from October 19 to 23 in various municipalities within Liguria, such as Santo Stefano di Magra, Arcola, and La Spezia. This public engagement is a crucial step in securing the necessary permits from the Italian Ministry of Environment and Energy Security. The project is fully financed by private sources and is recognized as an initiative of strategic importance at both European and Italian levels, aligning with the EU's Global Gateway and Italy's Mattei Plan to enhance cooperation with African nations, particularly Algeria.