Today (28/7), the Independent Power Transmission Operator (IPTO) launched the upgraded 150 kV submarine high-voltage electrical interconnection between Kyllini and Zakynthos, which will fully shield the safe supply of the Ionian Islands.
With the successful electrification of the new cable system installed by the Operator, the outdated technology interconnection that had been operating continuously since the early 1980s was permanently removed from the Transmission System.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.
In 2022, when the old interconnection was repeatedly presenting problems, the Operator proceeded to install Power Generators 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 IPTO and HEDNO, the electrification of the new line was expeditiously carried out without causing any inconvenience to the residents and visitors of the island, despite the high temperatures.
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 optical fibre integration and has a total length of approximately 23 km.
The Chairman and CEO of IPTO, Mr. Manos Manousakis, said in this regard: “With the new electrical interconnection between Kyllini and Zakynthos, 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 streamline critical electrical infrastructure in the rest of the Ionian Islands as well, thus 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".
