Progress on Great Sea Interconnector project with new survey vessel deployment

On October 14, 2026, the Great Sea Interconnector project reached two key milestones. First, the French-flagged vessel Abeille Marengo has been submitted for authorization to conduct seabed surveys for the undersea power cable between Crete and Cyprus. According to the Hellenic Coast Guard, this survey will take place within Greek territorial waters and utilize specialized equipment, including a multibeam echo sounder, side-scan sonar, and magnetometers, to map the optimal route and determine protection requirements for the cable at depths of up to 700 meters.

Simultaneously, the Independent Power Transmission Operator (ADMIE) has officially submitted an investment request to the regulatory authorities of Cyprus and Israel. This move, aligned with the European TEN-E regulation, advances the second phase of the interconnector project. These developments follow a series of agreements, including the entry of the French investment firm Meridiam as the majority shareholder in the project and ministerial discussions between Greece and Israel. While initial work avoids disputed areas east of Kasos, it remains a critical step to ending Cyprus' energy isolation. The project is expected to enhance regional energy security and reduce electricity costs once completed.