AUSTIN, TEXAS (June 12, 2023) — The Edison Electric Institute (EEI) today awarded Terna S.p.A. with the 2023 International Edison Award. Presented annually and selected by a panel of former energy industry executives, the Edison Award is the electric power industry’s highest honor. The award was presented in Austin, Texas, during EEI 2023, the institute’s annual thought leadership forum.
Terna S.p.A. received the International Edison Award for its Italy-France Electrical Interconnection. Terna and RTE, the Italian and French electricity transmission system operators, partnered on a project for a direct current transmission line that will be the world’s longest electrical infrastructure crossing the Alps completely integrated in a highway, spanning 190 kilometers (approximately 118 miles) between the two countries. Known as ‘the invisible link’, the line is fully integrated into existing road infrastructures with zero impact on the surrounding environment. It crosses the Alps through the Frejus Tunnel and 28 highway viaducts.
The line will increase the transmission capacity between the two countries by 1,200 megawatts, enabling the integration of more renewable energy and increasing the interconnectedness of Europe’s electricity system. Safety of operation will be improved, thus ensuring increased stability and greater operational flexibility. It will also reduce grid congestion, supporting electricity imports and exports and improving integration of renewable resources.
“Installing the cable into existing highway infrastructure required innovative technical solutions. EEI’s international members are building the reliable, resilient, and sustainable power systems of the future,” said EEI President and CEO Tom Kuhn. “This interconnection between Italy and France represents a strategic project for all of Europe and will enhance their energy grids without disrupting the natural splendor of the Alps. I applaud Terna for its leadership and congratulate them for winning this prestigious award for this engineering and construction modern marvel.”
“Terna is honored to receive the prestigious International Edison Award from EEI,” said Terna CEO and General Manager Giuseppina Di Foggia. “The interconnection between Italy and France is the longest of its type in the world. This innovative and sustainable infrastructure will substantially increase the integration of renewable energy and, most importantly, will support Europe’s goals for reducing carbon emissions while strengthening grid connections.”
