A quiet revolution is taking place beneath the Mediterranean Sea. By 2028, Tunisia will be supplying electricity directly to Europe through a powerful new link: a 600-megawatt undersea cable connecting North Africa to Southern Europe. This project, known as the ELMED Interconnector, is set to reshape energy flows across continents.
Connecting Continents with Clean Energy
The ELMED Interconnector is a 200-kilometer high-voltage direct current (HVDC) cable that will run from Cap Bon in Tunisia to Sicily in Italy. It’s designed to carry electricity, especially from renewable sources between the two regions, helping Europe diversify its energy supply while supporting Tunisia’s energy ambitions.
This is the first time such a large-scale electricity connection will link Africa directly to the European grid. It’s a major step toward a more integrated and sustainable energy future.
Backed by Global Partners
The project is supported by a strong coalition of international institutions:
- European Union: Over €300 million in grants through the Connecting Europe Facility.
- World Bank: $268 million loan for converter stations and grid upgrades.
- European Investment Bank (EIB) and KfW: €125 million in financing.
- European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD): €45 million loan.
Together, these partners are helping Tunisia build the infrastructure needed to become a reliable energy supplier to Europe.
What This Means for Africa
This project is not just about Tunisia and Italy, it’s a signal of Africa’s growing role in the global energy market.
- A New Energy Export Model: Tunisia is showing how African countries can move beyond raw material exports and become providers of clean, high-value energy.
- Boosting Local Economies: The project will create jobs, improve infrastructure, and attract more investment in Tunisia’s energy sector.
- Encouraging Regional Integration: Success in Tunisia could inspire similar projects in Morocco, Egypt, and other countries with strong renewable energy potential.
- Strengthening Africa’s Global Position: By supplying clean energy to Europe, Africa becomes a key player in the global transition to net-zero emissions.
This is a chance for Africa to lead, not just follow in the green energy revolution.
Progress So Far
As of Q3 2025, the project is well underway:
- Environmental and marine studies are complete.
- Public consultations have been held in both countries.
- Final permits in Italy are expected in early 2026.
- Construction is set to begin in 2026, with operations starting in 2028.
Converter stations will be built in Mlaabi (Tunisia) and Partanna (Italy) to manage the electricity flow between the two grids.
A Future Powered by Partnership
The ELMED Interconnector is more than a cable, it’s a bridge between continents, a symbol of cooperation, and a tool for progress. It shows how smart investments, and strong partnerships can turn bold ideas into real impact. By 2028, Tunisia won’t just be powering homes and businesses in Europe, it will be powering a new vision for Africa’s place in the world.