• Strengthened energy interconnections across the Adriatic Sea, enhancing Mediterranean energy security.
• Albania to expand renewable energy exports, supported by Italy and UAE expertise.
• $1 billion subsea project operational within three years, connecting Vlore to Puglia.

Italy, Albania, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have signed a groundbreaking €1 billion ($1 billion) agreement to construct a subsea energy interconnection across the Adriatic Sea. This project will import renewable energy and bolster the region’s energy infrastructure.

“The partnership marks a significant step towards enhancing energy security, promoting sustainable development, and accelerating the transition to clean energy in the Mediterranean region,” stated a joint declaration from the three nations, announced at the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi.

Expanding Regional Energy Links

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni highlighted the initiative’s role in enhancing existing interconnections. “Stretching 430 km along the Adriatic seabed, the project links Italy to Montenegro and other Balkan regions, making these connections more efficient and competitive,” she explained.

The infrastructure will connect the Albanian port of Vlore to Italy’s southern region of Puglia, located at the narrowest point between the two nations. The connection is expected to be operational within three years, according to Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama.

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Empowering Renewable Energy

The agreement enables Albania to export locally produced renewable energy. Over the past two years, Albania has expanded its renewable energy capacity by approximately 500 MW. “By leveraging the UAE’s world-class expertise in renewable energy, Albania’s abundant natural resources, and Italy’s sophisticated energy market, we are connecting nations in far-sighted collaboration,” noted Sultan Al Jaber, UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology.

Belinda Balluku, Albania’s Deputy Prime Minister and Infrastructure and Energy Minister, emphasized the country’s commitment to diversifying its renewable energy mix as it gains access to Italy’s advanced energy market.

Strategic Partnerships

The project includes Italian grid operator Terna and UAE’s National Energy Company (Taqa). It complements ongoing initiatives, such as the electricity connection between Italy and Tunisia, aimed at increasing power flow capacity within the Mediterranean region.

This collaboration showcases a united effort to advance clean energy transition and regional energy security. “The infrastructure exemplifies how nations can work together to address global energy challenges through innovation and shared expertise,” said Balluku.

With this partnership, the Mediterranean moves closer to becoming a hub for sustainable energy solutions.

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