MINISTRY OF ECONOMY
AND SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
OF GEORGIA

Black Sea Submarine Cable Project is promising and technically and economically feasible – this is a note from a study, which was prepared by the Italian consulting company CESI. The study was requested by the state company, Georgian State Electric System with the financial support of the World Bank and sustained by the Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development of Georgia. The technical and economic study was prepared in order to identify the possibilities and best ways of practical implementation of the project.

The Black Sea Submarine Cable Project envisages the construction of a high-voltage underwater transmission network, which is to connect the electrical energy systems of Georgia and Europe. The implementation of the project will contribute to the strengthening of energy security of Europe and the Caucasus region, the development of the renewable energy sector and the increase of transit opportunities between the specified regions.

Within the framework of the study, the optimal capabilities of the cable were determined, the project's construction cost was assessed and economic analysis was carried out. A preliminary route of the land and sea sections of the cable was also determined, and a project implementation plan and procurement strategy were developed.

Natural environment and social issues were also studied for the project route, environmental and social issues screening and scoping reports were prepared for Georgia and Romania. Also, a description of the work required for conducting geotechnical, geophysical, ecological and archaeological studies of the seabed was developed and a tender technical assignment document was prepared.

The technical and economic study of the project was launched in 2022. Environmental and social impact and seabed studies will also be carried out in upcoming 2025-2026.

It should be noted that on December 17, 2022, the governments of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Georgia, Romania and Hungary signed an Agreement on Strategic Partnership on Green Energy Development and Transmission, which significantly contributes to the deepening of regional relationships and cooperation. Within the framework of the Agreement, several ministerial meetings have already been held, where the issues related to the development of the Black Sea Submarine Cable Project was discussed and a decision was made to establish a joint subsidiary venture by the participating countries, through which the project will be further developed.

With the development of this project, Georgia, as a candidate country, will strengthen its position as one of the most important and reliable partner states of the European Union. The Black Sea Submarine Cable Project will provide Georgia with an additional function of a "new European destination" and will significantly increase its role in ensuring European energy security.