en.Wedoany.com Reported - A senior executive from Hitachi Energy recently called for enhanced power interconnection networks between Europe and Mediterranean basin countries to more efficiently address peak demand and support renewable energy integration, as the current power system's need for flexibility is rising.

This call came shortly after Portugal's Energy Minister stated that the country is studying the construction of a power connection line to Morocco, aimed at providing an additional electricity source during supply disruptions.

Regarding specific projects, Hitachi Energy recently secured a €770 million contract from Italian grid operator Terna and Tunisian grid operator STEG to build converter stations for the "Elmed" power interconnection project between Italy and Tunisia. The line, designated as a strategic project by the European Commission, is the first high-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission line between Europe and North Africa, with a transmission capacity of 600 megawatts, supporting bidirectional power exchange.

Niklas Persson, CEO of Hitachi Energy's Grid Integration business unit, stated that the project will enable Italy to import electricity from renewable energy projects planned for development in Tunisia and enhance both countries' ability to meet peak demand. HVDC technology is key to integrating renewable energy and enabling efficient long-distance power transmission, reducing energy losses during transmission. According to the project plan, the converter stations will convert alternating current (AC) to direct current (DC), transmit it through a 220-kilometer submarine cable, and then reconvert it to AC for integration into local grids. Persson said construction of the converter stations is expected to begin within about a year, with the project set to become operational in 2031, and equipment will be manufactured in Europe.