Italy’s Deep Dive Into the Future of Power

Italy’s Tyrrhenian Link sets new depth records as nations invest in cleaner, more connected grids

17 Oct 2025

Europe’s energy transition is moving below the waves as new subsea power links begin to redefine how electricity flows across the continent. Among the most ambitious is Italy’s Tyrrhenian Link, a high-voltage cable project intended to strengthen grid connections and support renewable integration.

Developed by grid operator Terna with French manufacturer Nexans, the Tyrrhenian Link will span almost 1,000km between Sicily and Sardinia, reaching depths of more than 2,000m. Once completed, it will be among the world’s deepest high-voltage direct-current subsea cables, marking a technical milestone for Europe’s power infrastructure.

Industry specialists describe the project as a significant step toward a more interconnected and resilient network. “Deep-sea transmission is moving from theory to practical reality,” said a researcher at the European Network of Transmission System Operators. The link is expected to help balance renewable generation, reduce grid fluctuations and improve supply reliability across Italy’s islands and mainland.

The initiative is also drawing wider attention to Europe’s growing subsea sector. Cable suppliers, marine contractors and data-monitoring companies report rising demand as governments expand offshore power links. Similar projects in the North Sea and northern Europe are under way, reflecting a broader push for energy integration.

Technical and environmental hurdles persist, including challenges in deepwater installation and maintenance. Still, utilities and policymakers remain confident that subsea grids can reinforce energy security while supporting decarbonisation. “We’re not just laying cables, we’re laying the groundwork for Europe’s energy independence,” said a senior Nexans project manager.

As European economies accelerate their clean energy commitments, subsea transmission networks are emerging as critical infrastructure for future power systems. The Tyrrhenian Link, once operational, could set a benchmark for large-scale interconnections and encourage further investment across the continent’s offshore energy frontier.