The operation of the Attica-Crete electrical interconnection, with the transfer of direct current electricity, was successfully launched on Saturday, May 25, Independent Power Transmission Operator (IPTO) announced on Monday.
The project, built by Ariadne Interconnection, a subsidiary of IPTO, is now in a period of trial operation, which is expected to last during the summer months.
IPTO spoke of a "historic day for the country's Electricity Transmission System and IPTO, as Greece now has an extra-high voltage direct current (HVDC) interconnection and thanks to this, Crete is an integral part of the National Electricity System."
Crete was first interconnected in 2021 with the Peloponnese, using alternating current technology. "The operation of the second interconnection is a milestone for Crete, since in combination with the interconnection via the Peloponnese, the electrical isolation of the largest Greek island is completely lifted, making it an energy hub with very significant environmental and economic benefits for the country and the local community," according to IPTO.
This is a 1 GW project with a budget of 1.1 billion euros, using cutting-edge VSC technology at the Converter Stations and with 500 kV submarine cables laid at depths of up to 1,200 meters, which makes it one of the deepest interconnections in the world.