Great Sea Interconnector project awaits crucial subsea survey phase

The Great Sea Interconnector (GSI) project, an ambitious subsea electricity link between Greece and Cyprus, is preparing for its next critical phase: the completion of remaining subsea surveys. In the coming weeks, a new NAVTEX is expected to be issued to facilitate these operations, marking a significant milestone for the project's technical progression.

The upcoming surveys will cover approximately 40% of the total underwater cable route. These operations are concentrated in specific maritime zones, including areas east and southeast of Kasos and Karpathos, east of Crete, and in the corridor extending west and southwest of Cyprus toward its Exclusive Economic Zone. The project is currently being coordinated by Greece in collaboration with the Independent Power Transmission Operator (IPTO), France's Meridiam, and Nexans. Officials are delaying the activation of these sea zones to ensure all necessary permits are secured and specialized equipment and personnel are fully prepared.

Beyond technical logistics, the project faces a complex geopolitical landscape, as Turkey continues to reassert various claims in the Aegean and Eastern Mediterranean. The issuance of the NAVTEX is seen as a test of regional reactions, requiring careful diplomatic and institutional coordination to ensure the continuation of work in these sensitive international waters.