Enemalta advances plans for new Malta-Gozo interconnector

Enemalta is seeking input from potential economic operators on the design and construction of a new 132kV electricity connection between Malta and Gozo.

During the summer, Gozo experienced prolonged power cuts after faults affected two cables supplying electricity to the island. The outages occurred during a heatwave affecting the Maltese Islands, with tourism operators describing this situation as "embarrassing" and one that "affects Malta's image."

The proposed project involves a submarine cable of around 20 kilometres, together with land-based sections on both islands, connecting Baħar iċ-Ċagħaq near Magħtab with Għajnsielem in Gozo.

Enemalta's pre-market consultation covers the design and construction of the submarine and land-based cables, marine surveying and route design, nearshore and offshore works, cable-laying vessel requirements, subsea installation and burial, directional drilling, and land-based high-voltage cable installation.

The consultation document states that some “site-specific information, including depth and thermal conditions, is not yet available.”

The proposed marine route passes near the Gozo Sewage Purification Plant at Ras il-Ħobż, an existing Water Services Corporation submarine sewage outfall pipe and a fibre optic cable.

It also passes through areas containing Posidonia Oceanica meadows, deep-water coral colonies and marine conservation areas, including the MV Pippo wreck and Ix-Xatt l-Aħmar.

An Environmental Impact Assessment will be required for the project.

The project follows a €45 million investment pledge for a high-voltage connection between Malta and Gozo made during the 2026 general election campaign.