Transforming Renewable Energy Networks in the Mediterranean

The United Arab Emirates (UAE), Italy, and Albania have signed a major cooperation deal to build a subsea interconnection across the Adriatic Sea. The project, valued at €1 billion, targets completion by 2028. It will enhance energy security and boost renewable power integration across the Mediterranean region.

Linking Renewable Energy from Albania to Italy

The new connection will move renewable energy from Albania to Italy through an advanced underwater cable. The link will connect Vlore, Albania, with Puglia, Italy, and deliver up to 1,000 megawatts (MW) of power. It complements the existing 430-km Montenegro–Italy subsea cable developed by Terna in 2019.

Driving Regional Sustainability and Energy Security

Announced at the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi, the deal combines the UAE’s renewable expertise with Albania’s growing energy resources. Abu Dhabi National Energy Company (TAQA) will help boost Albania’s solar and wind output. The project also supports Italy’s efforts to expand clean energy and cut emissions.

The Albanian government said the agreement boosts both renewable production in Albania and energy security in Italy.

Strategic Collaboration for Europe’s Clean Energy Future

Key partners in this endeavor include Terna, Italy’s leading grid operator, and TAQA, representing the UAE’s growing global role in clean energy development. Together, the project aims to:

• Accelerate Albania’s development of untapped solar and wind resources.
• Support Italy’s efforts to cut CO₂ emissions and reduce energy dependence on non-allied suppliers.
• Build stronger regional cooperation across Southern Europe and the Middle East in advancing clean energy transmission.

Shared Vision for Global Energy Transition

UAE Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, who also served as President of COP28, hailed the agreement as a “far-sighted collaboration” uniting Albania’s green energy potential, the UAE’s renewable innovation, and Italy’s advanced energy market. He highlighted that the initiative aligns closely with the global mission to triple renewable energy capacity and accelerate the shift away from fossil fuels.

Italy’s Expanding Network of Subsea Energy Projects

Italy continues building key energy corridors. Projects like the Elmed Interconnector between Italy and Tunisia, and the SoutH2 Corridor for hydrogen transport from North Africa to Central Europe, highlight Italy’s role in Europe’s clean energy transition. The Adriatic subsea link adds another major step in this growth.