Updates on the Maritime Electricity Interconnector Involving Israel
Greece and France are considering adjustments to the planned subsea electricity cable linking Crete, Cyprus, and Israel amidst regional maritime developments.
- A rerouting of the power cable is under discussion to avoid a newly declared marine park area.
- French firms are taking a leading role in the two billion-plus euro infrastructure project.
- The planned interconnector aims to link the electricity grids of Greece, Cyprus, and Israel.
While diplomatic and engineering discussions continue regarding maritime boundaries, this update concerns high-level infrastructure planning. For Israelis following regional energy ties, it serves as general background information and has no direct impact on tourism, travel safety, or private property investments.
Potential Route Adjustments
Greece and France are examining the possibility of rerouting the Great Sea Interconnector, the planned subsea electricity cable designed to link Crete, Cyprus, and Israel. According to reports, the potential adjustment aims to bypass a marine park recently declared by Türkiye near the island of Kastellorizo (Meis).
Athens does not recognize the Turkish declaration and disputes any implications for sovereign rights, but the adjustment is being explored to facilitate the progression of the strategic energy link.
Increased French Involvement
This development coincides with France assuming greater control over the project, which is valued at over two billion euros. French infrastructure firm Meridiam acquired a majority 66% stake in August, and French cable manufacturer Nexans has been selected to perform the installation.
Athens and Paris agreed that Greece will notify Türkiye regarding planned survey operations rather than seek permission, relying on the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which permits submarine cable surveys in relevant international waters without coastal state consent.
Survey Status and Next Steps
Approximately 40% of seabed surveys remain unfinished, including work in sensitive waters east of Kasos where past disruptions occurred. Additionally, Greece is evaluating whether to extend its territorial waters to 12 nautical miles south and west of Crete before survey work resumes.
Strategic Importance
The Great Sea Interconnector is engineered to connect the electricity grids of Greece, Cyprus, and Israel. No final date has yet been set for the resumption of the marine surveys as discussions between the involved European partners continue.
Yavanet will keep updating from official sources.
