A Subsea Superhighway for Green Energy
Italy’s energy giant, Eni, is making waves in the renewable energy sector with a groundbreaking plan to bring clean power from Albania to Italy via a 1 GW subsea interconnector. This ambitious project, developed in collaboration with Emirati partners, marks a significant step toward a sustainable energy future. The underwater cable will stretch beneath the Adriatic Sea, linking Albania’s Vlora region to Italy’s Apulia, and is expected to be operational within three years.
Eni has secured its position as the preferred off-taker for renewable energy generated in Albania, with a capacity of up to 3 GW. This energy will be transmitted through the subsea link, providing Italy with a steady stream of green power. The project is part of a broader strategic partnership between Italy, Albania, and the UAE, highlighting the growing importance of international collaboration in the global energy transition.
Data Centers Powered by Blue Energy
But Eni’s vision doesn’t stop at renewable energy transmission. The company is also diving into the tech world with plans to develop state-of-the-art data centers in Italy. Partnering with Abu Dhabi-based MGX and G42, Eni aims to create facilities with an IT capacity of up to 1 GW. These data centers will be powered by “blue energy,” a low-carbon solution generated from natural gas plants equipped with carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology.
The first project, located in Ferrera Erbognone, will be developed in two phases, each offering 500 MW of IT capacity—equivalent to Italy’s current installed capacity. This initiative is a direct response to the growing demand for sustainable computing power, particularly in the age of AI and big data. By integrating CCS technology, Eni ensures that these data centers align with its commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
Critical Minerals: The Building Blocks of Tomorrow
Eni’s collaboration with the UAE extends beyond energy and technology. The company has also signed a memorandum of understanding with ADQ, a sovereign investor focused on critical infrastructure, to explore the development of critical minerals. These minerals are essential for everything from renewable energy systems to advanced electronics, making them a cornerstone of the energy transition.
“Our partnership with the UAE is a testament to our shared commitment to a sustainable energy future,” said Eni CEO Claudio Descalzi. “By leveraging innovation and collaboration across key sectors, we are driving technological progress and contributing to global energy security.”
A Global Vision with Local Impact
Eni’s presence in the UAE dates back to 2018, where it holds significant stakes in offshore exploration and production projects. The company’s investments in Abu Dhabi’s energy sector, including the Ghasha concession and ADNOC Refining, underscore its role as a key player in the global energy market.
This latest initiative not only strengthens Eni’s position as a leader in renewable energy but also highlights the importance of cross-border partnerships in addressing the world’s energy challenges. As the subsea interconnector takes shape, it promises to deliver clean energy to millions while setting a new standard for international cooperation in the fight against climate change.
