Italy, Albania, and the UAE have signed a historic €1 billion deal to construct a subsea energy interconnection across the Adriatic Sea. This ambitious project is designed to enhance energy security and accelerate the region’s clean energy transition. Expected to be operational within three years, the energy link will connect Albania’s Vlore port to Italy’s Puglia region, improving energy infrastructure and enabling the import of renewable energy. 

The agreement will help Albania expand its renewable energy exports, leveraging its abundant natural resources and the advanced energy expertise of Italy and the UAE. Albania has made significant strides in recent years, expanding its renewable energy capacity by approximately 500 MW, positioning the country as a vital player in the renewable energy market in the Mediterranean. This project is poised to improve the efficiency and competitiveness of the energy market by linking Albania with Italy and other Balkan regions. 

The subsea connection aligns with the countries’ broader goals of achieving a carbon neutral strategy. The initiative is part of a concerted effort to accelerate the global transition to renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions. By facilitating cross-border energy flow, the project not only boosts Albania’s energy exports but also strengthens the entire Mediterranean energy grid. The countries involved are united in their commitment to advancing sustainable development and contributing to the global clean energy movement. 

The project is also supported by key stakeholders, including the Italian grid operator Terna, the UAE’s National Energy Company (Taqa), and Albania’s growing renewable sector. Additionally, it complements ongoing projects such as the electricity link between Italy and Tunisia, aimed at further increasing power flow capacity across the Mediterranean. 

This collaboration highlights the importance of international partnerships in achieving environmental, social, and governance (ESG) goals and advancing the global clean energy agenda. By fostering such strategic partnerships, Italy, Albania, and the UAE are contributing to a more sustainable energy future, showcasing how shared expertise and innovative solutions can address global energy challenges and promote regional energy security. 

Sources :  

https://esgnews.com/italy-albania-and-uae-sign-e1-billion-deal-for-adriatic-renewable-energy-link/ 

https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/italy-albania-uae-sign-deal-energy-subsea-interconnection-2025-01-15/ 

https://www.power-technology.com/news/italy-albania-uae-adriatic-sea/ 

https://www.euronews.com/green/2025/01/15/italy-albania-and-uae-sign-deal-to-share-renewable-energy-across-the-adriatic-sea