Turkey and Northern Cyprus Announce Plans to Build a Gas Pipeline and Power Cable

Details have emerged about the initiative to lay submarine infrastructure between Turkey and the northern part of the island. The project includes the construction of a bidirectional gas pipeline approximately 97 km long and 55 cm in diameter. The cost of the works is estimated at $700 million. The initiative also includes the modernization of the Teknecik power plant.

The signing of an intergovernmental agreement is expected in mid-June 2026, while construction is scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2026, with the facilities expected to be commissioned in 2028. The project is being discussed in the context of modernizing the energy system in the northern part of the island and ensuring the stability of energy supplies. In the long term, the infrastructure is expected to allow reverse flow for transporting gas to Turkey.

At the same time, the implementation of such projects touches on issues of international recognition and the legal regulation of activities in the exclusive economic zone. The Republic of Cyprus and European institutions remain committed to the implementation of the Great Sea Interconnector project. This interconnector, which will connect the power grids of Cyprus and Greece, is seen as a key solution for integrating the island into the pan-European energy system. The project has the support of European institutions, as confirmed by its inclusion in the ENTSO-E development plan.