Medlink Project: A Priority Initiative for the European Union
The Medlink project, an energy linkage initiative between Tunisia, Italy, and Algeria, has been included among the European Union's priority projects for renewable energy. This cross-border partnership aims to develop approximately 10 gigawatts (GW) of solar, terrestrial wind, and energy storage systems in Tunisia and Algeria, intended for both local markets and export.
Recognition by the European Commission
This recognition comes as the European Commission updates its list of cross-border projects, which includes Medlink among the initiatives benefiting from a "special status." This status grants increased visibility and allows the project to apply for grants for studies or construction work through the Mechanism for Interconnection in Europe (MIE).
Evaluation and Selection
Medlink was selected from among five new projects presented between September 2024 and January 2025 and was evaluated by independent experts, as well as the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) and the European Commission, which confirmed the project's viability and economic relevance.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for this status, a project must involve at least two EU member states or one or more member states with third countries. The current list includes thirteen cross-border projects supported by the MIE, designed to facilitate sustainable energy interconnections.
Project Overview
Concretely, Medlink plans to produce 30 terawatt-hours (TWh) per year of electricity from renewable energy sources, using photovoltaic solar installations, terrestrial wind farms, and battery energy storage systems (BESS). It also plans to install 4 GW of electricity transfer capacity via an underwater cable between North Africa and Italy, primarily for the European market.
Key Facts
- 10 GW of solar, wind, and energy storage systems to be developed in Tunisia and Algeria
- 30 TWh of electricity to be produced per year from renewable energy sources
- 4 GW of electricity transfer capacity to be installed via an underwater cable between North Africa and Italy
- Project benefits from a "special status" granted by the European Commission, increasing its visibility and eligibility for grants.
