WiredInUSA March 2016

INDEX

Securing supply

The Gozo University group (GUG) is calling for a second fiber optic cable between Malta and Gozo to safeguard Gozo businesses. The group claims that businesses are vulnerable with only a single cable between the islands, and that this is proving an obstacle for foreign investment. GUG states that Gozo is in need of fresh opportunities for the current and future generations: “It’s a well known fact that the majority of graduates, who are the heart and future of Malta’s sister island, look elsewhere for a career. Not by choice, but it’s because it’s the only option available,” adding that it should be of common interest to address every possible obstacle to foreign investment. A meeting with Dr Alfred Sant, MEP, was held to discuss the possibility of EU funds for the establishment of a second fiber optic cable. Dr Sant explained that this is highly possible, but the government needs to apply for the funds. GUG appealed for this to be made a priority. Call for cable back up

Siemens has a contract to be a part of the COBRA link between the Dutch and Danish power grids. Siemens will supply the two HVDC converter stations at both ends of the DC power line, routed as a subsea cable through the North Sea. The scope of the order covers two 700MW converter stations for a DC voltage of ±320kV. The two converter stations will be linked by a 325km DC power cable. “We are extremely pleased to drive forward the development of a high-performance, European interconnected power system together with Energinet dk, TenneT and Prysmian [suppliers of the HVDC cable]”, stated Jan Mrosik, CEO of the Siemens energy management division. TenneT CEO Mel Kroon said: “One main purpose of the COBRA cable is to promote competition in the northwest European energy market, which will ultimately benefit consumers. Because we are directly linking the Dutch and Danish power grids, the security of supply for businesses and consumers in both countries will also increase. Plus the Netherlands will be able to import more renewable electricity, generated mainly by Danish wind turbine farms.”

The link is scheduled to begin commercial operation in early 2019.

wiredInUSA - March 2016

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