The upgraded high-voltage electrical interconnections of Zakynthos-Kefalonia and Kefalonia-Lefkada were successfully put into operation by IPTO. The new lines fully replace the existing old-type interconnections, which had operated continuously for decades among the three islands.
The projects constructed by the Operator concern the study, supply and installation of two complete cable systems, with a total length of 20.4 km and 14.8 km, respectively, using 150 kV alternating current technology and incorporating optical fiber telecommunications cables.
The new electrical infrastructure provides greater energy security and reliable power supply to the southern Ionian Islands -Zakynthos, Kefalonia, Ithaca and Lefkada- with significant benefits for the daily lives of permanent residents as well as for the tourism product of the islands, which receive a large number of visitors during the summer period.
Also underway is the construction of the third interconnection of Corfu with the mainland system, via Igoumenitsa, with a length of 21 km. The laying of the new 150 kV cable has been completed, while the protection works for the submarine section will follow, as well as the installation of the underground and overhead sections of the line on the Corfu and Thesprotia sides, respectively. The goal is the completion and operation of the entire project within 2027.
In previous years, IPTO has launched the systematic upgrade of the interconnections in the Ionian that were nearing the end of their life cycle. In this context, in 2023, the Operator put into operation the upgraded high-voltage submarine interconnection connecting Kyllini (Elis) with Zakynthos. The technological renewal of the above interconnections increases overall the connection resilience of the Kyllini-Zakynthos-Kefalonia-Lefkada-Aktio loop with the mainland country's electrical system.