New electricity interconnection between Kyllini – Zakynthos

The Independent Power Transmission Operator (IPTO) put into operation today Friday.  the upgraded high-voltage 150 kV Kyllini-Zakynthos submarine electrical interconnection, with which the secure power supply of the Ionian Islands is fully shielded.

With the successful electrification of the new cable system installed by the Operator, the outdated technology interconnection that had been operating continuously since the early 1980s was permanently retired from the Transmission System.

IPTO implemented the project within just one year of holding the tender and signing the contract with the contractor company Fulgor, allowing the immediate replacement of the previous cable which, due to its age, was prone to technical failures and malfunctions.

During 2022, when the old interconnection showed, repeatedly, problems, the Administrator proceeded to install Power Generation Pairs (H/Z) as backups to ensure the safe and uninterrupted electricity supply of the consumers of Zakynthos and the rest of the interconnected islands of the region (Kefalonia, Lefkada, Ithaca).

Thanks to the know-how and excellent coordination of the competent executives and crews of ADMIE and Hellenic Electricity Distribution Network Operator (HEDNO), the electrification of the new line was carried out with rapid procedures and without inconvenience to the residents and visitors of the island, despite the heat conditions.

From a technical point of view, the new electrical interconnection consists of a three-pole cable, XLPE type insulation, with a carrying capacity of 200 MVA. It has fiber optic integration and has a total length of approximately 23 km.

The President and CEO of IPTO, Mr. Manos Manousakis, said in this regard: “With the new Kyllini-Zakynthos electrical interconnection, IPTO is upgrading energy security in the Ionian as well. The cable we electrified, today, finally solves the problems of the old interconnection and ensures the coverage of the island’s loads in the “heart” of the tourist season. By 2025, we will modernize critical electrical infrastructure in the rest of the Ionian Islands as well, significantly strengthening the Transmission System in the western part of the country as well. Congratulations to the people of IPTO and the contracting company for the excellent cooperation, resulting in the quick and perfect completion of the project”.