High voltage transmission lines across the political boundaries of north African countries have started as early as 1952 when a 90 kV transmission line was built between Algeria and Tunisia. It has been followed by a 220 kV line which was commissioned in the year 1980 and a 150 kV line in the year 1984.

Two transmission lines have been constructed between Algeria and Morocco, one commissioned in 1988 and the second 1992. According to jointly agreed agreements between the three countries, the maximum exchange is not to exceed 150 MW between Algeria and Tunisia and 200 MW between Algeria and Morocco.

A feasibility study is being updated for a project to interconnect the power systems in Tunisia and Libya, in order to exchange ta power with a maximum of 150 MW in either direction. The project would include the construction of about 600 km of 220 kV transmission lines, most of it in the territory of Tunisia. It is planned that this interconnection be commissioned in the 1996.

The interconnection between Egypt and Libya is being progressively implemented. Both countries are extending the 220 kV network to gradually reach the common borders.

Arab-Maghreb Interconnection

Of course, full interconnection of the power systems of the five countries would be effected by the construction of a 500 kV (400 kV) transmission system superimposed on the 220 (150) kV transmission lines which are now used for the transfer or exchange of a certain amount of power.