Malta-Sicily interconnector back in operation after three-day shutdown
National grid remained 'stable and secure' during the works, Energy Minister says
The interconnector linking Malta to the European energy grid is now back in full operation following a coordinated shutdown as works on the second interconnector continue.
The IC1 was shut down for three days for “essential technical interventions” at the Ragusa Terminal Station in Sicily.
The works, which represent “a significant step forward” in the delivery of the second interconnector (IC2), were carried out while maintaining full national electricity stability, Energy Minister Miriam Dalli said on Wednesday.
“Maintaining national electricity stability is always a priority during such works, and achieving it is no small feat. The diligent and professional service of these technical teams ensured that these complex works were finalised within the established timeframe, prioritising safety and system reliability,” Dalli said.
The scheduled intervention, announced last Saturday, required the temporary suspension of IC1 to allow for the safe rerouting of control cables in preparation for the foundations of a new 220kV hybrid switchgear.
This equipment is vital for the integration of the IC2, providing the necessary infrastructure to connect spare shunt reactors and enhance the resilience of both interconnectors.
During the shut-down, Enemalta ensured that the national grid remained “stable and secure”.