In a stunning display of human ingenuity and technological prowess, French cable manufacturer Nexans has accomplished what many thought impossible—installing a high-voltage power cable deeper underwater than ever before achieved. The company has set a new world record by laying a 500 kV cable at an astonishing depth of 2,150 meters beneath the Mediterranean Sea as part of Italy's ambitious Tyrrhenian Link project.

The achievement, completed in December 2025 and finalized on New Year's Day 2026, represents far more than just a technical milestone. It's a testament to what dedicated teams can accomplish when they combine cutting-edge technology with unwavering commitment to excellence. The project will ultimately strengthen Italy's electrical grid, ensuring more reliable power for millions of homes and businesses across the country.

The Tyrrhenian Link is transforming Italy's energy landscape by creating a vital connection between Sardinia and Sicily, with approximately 480 kilometers of deep-water cable installed by Nexans. When complete, the entire system will span nearly 970 kilometers and deliver 1,000 megawatts of clean, reliable electricity—enough to power countless communities and support Italy's transition to sustainable energy.

Pascal Radue, Executive Vice President of Power Transmission at Nexans, expressed pride in his team's accomplishment, noting that installing such advanced technology at unprecedented depths required "exceptional precision and discipline across engineering, manufacturing, route preparation and vessel operations." The success reflects not just technological advancement, but the dedication and expertise of hundreds of skilled professionals working in harmony.

Giuseppina Di Foggia, CEO of Terna, Italy's Transmission System Operator, celebrated the milestone as proof of what's possible when vision meets capability. "This milestone demonstrates our ability to manage highly complex technological challenges and deliver infrastructure that strengthens the stability, security and adequacy of Italy's electricity system," she said.

The project showcases the remarkable capabilities of Nexans' specialized vessel, the Nexans Aurora, which navigated challenging deep-sea conditions to precisely position the massive cables. The successful completion of both pull-in operations—connecting the landing points in Terra Mala, Sardinia, and Fiumetorto, Sicily—marks a defining moment in subsea engineering history.

This achievement opens exciting possibilities for future infrastructure projects worldwide. As nations work to create more interconnected, resilient energy grids, the ability to install cables at such extreme depths means previously impossible connections can now become reality. Remote islands can be linked to mainland grids, renewable energy sources can be connected across vast distances, and communities can enjoy more stable, sustainable power.

The Tyrrhenian Link project beautifully illustrates how modern engineering can overcome nature's challenges while respecting the environment. The successful installation paves the way for Italy's energy independence and demonstrates the country's commitment to building robust, future-ready infrastructure that will serve generations to come.