Italy-France

The Italy-France HVDC project, also known as the Piedmont-Savoy interconnection, is a strategic power transmission link between Italy and France. This project aims to increase the security of power supply and enable energy exchange between the two countries, contributing to the creation of a single European energy market.

Project Overview

The Piedmont-Savoy interconnection consists of a ±320 kV extruded HVDC underground cable system that spans approximately 190 km through the Alps, connecting the substations of Piossasco near Turin, Italy, and Grand'Ile in Savoy, France. The project includes two independent HVDC symmetrical monopoles, each with a rated capacity of 600 MW, resulting in a total transmission capacity of 1200 MW.

Technical Details

The HVDC link utilizes Voltage Source Converter (VSC) technology, which allows for two-way transmission of direct current and offers reactive power management capabilities. This technology improves power quality, enhances network security, and helps the grid recover from total loss of local power. The project's design takes into account the intermittent nature of wind and solar energy, enabling efficient capture and transmission of renewable energy sources.

Construction and Implementation

The underground cable route is equally distributed between Italy and France, with approximately 95 km in each country. To minimize environmental impact, the cables were integrated with existing road and motorway infrastructures wherever possible. The Alps are crossed through the second Frejus motorway tunnel between Bardonecchia and Modane.

Project Significance

The Piedmont-Savoy interconnector is the fourth interconnector between Italy and France, increasing the exchange capacity between the two countries by about 40%. This enhancement bolsters the integration and competitiveness of the electricity market, aligning with EU strategy. The project allows Italy greater access to France's hydro and nuclear-generated power, while France can tap into Italy's solar energy.

Environmental Considerations

The project's design prioritizes sustainability and minimal environmental impact. By using underground cables and existing infrastructure, the visual impact on the Alpine landscape is minimized. Environmental studies were conducted, and mitigating measures were implemented to address potential impacts during the construction phase, such as noise, vibrations, and pollution from construction machinery.

Financial Aspects

The total value of the project exceeds €1.3 billion. The European Investment Bank (EIB) has provided significant financial support, including a €130 million loan to Terna for the Italian component of the project. This loan has a 22-year term with a fixed interest rate of 1.64%.

Timeline and Status

The project was initially expected to be operational by the end of 2019, but was finally commissioned in 2023.

Recognition and Support

The European Commission has identified the Piedmont-Savoy project as a Project of Common Interest (PCI) at the Community level, highlighting its strategic importance for European energy infrastructure. This designation underscores the project's role in supporting the EU's energy goals and fostering greater integration of the European electricity market.