The Athens-Crete interconnection project, designed to eliminate Crete’s energy isolation, is nearing its completion and is expected to be operational by May 2025, ahead of schedule and just in time for the upcoming summer tourist season. The construction of the interconnection began four and a half years ago.
Greek Energy Minister Thodoris Skylakakis recently announced that the interconnection would lead to a nationwide reduction in energy costs, helping to cut annual public service compensation expenses by at least 300 million euros. Currently, these expenses are covered by a surcharge on electricity bills, which fund the subsidies for electricity in high-cost generation areas.
In addition to providing broader economic relief, the early launch of the Athens-Crete connection will improve Crete’s energy security, especially during the summer tourism peak when electricity demand reaches its highest.
Until now, energy authorities have had to rely on temporary solutions, such as renting power generators, to maintain a stable energy supply for Crete, which is not only Greece’s largest island but also a critical tourist hub. The new interconnection promises to resolve this long-standing issue, ensuring a more reliable and cost-effective energy supply.
