Geopolitical turbulence and rising global temperatures significantly impacted Malta’s energy sector. Last summer’s prolonged heatwave placed further strain on the country’s infrastructure, resulting in cable faults.
Like many other countries, Malta is also in the midst of an energy transition toward renewable sources. This is a particularly sensitive time for the entire energy sector as the grid infrastructure needs to be modernized to deliver a more reliable supply of electricity and to introduce new technologies that align with global net-zero objectives.
Despite this, there is an opportunity for Malta to completely overhaul its energy industry and play a crucial role in the fight against climate change. One of the companies contributing to these substantial changes is Enemalta, the country’s main electricity provider since 1977.
“The energy sector in Malta faces significant challenges but we have already begun to address these,” Executive Chairman Ryan Fava said. “We initiated an ambitious project to lay 70 kilometers of cables within various localities in Malta and Gozo within six months, significantly expanding our infrastructure’s capacity.
“We have also diversified our cable sourcing. By partnering with various manufacturers, we are steadily receiving shipments and progressing towards completing this cable installation project. This will help to alleviate last year’s electricity shortage challenges.”
Enemalta has also been actively investing in renewable energy projects to help gradually transform Malta’s energy mix. “Diversity is key, therefore, we have 250 megawatts of installed photovoltaic panels complemented by an interconnector which is powered by LNG (liquefied natural gas) and a diesel system,” Fava explained.
“Recently, there has been a public consultation on wind power energy and floating PV (photovoltaic) panels outside Malta’s coastal areas, leveraging the abundant sunshine, which stands at around 300 sunny days annually. We also have plans for battery storage and remain committed to advancing greener energy while maintaining sectoral diversification.” To further showcase this commitment, Enemalta has invested more than $36 million over the past two years to enhance the electricity distribution system on Malta and the island of Gozo.
“This investment encompasses numerous substations, transformer uprates, feeder pillars, new distribution and the upgrading of existing distribution centers and cable reinforcements,” Fava said. “This includes the 70 km of cable I previously mentioned, as well as new distribution centers in Naxxar and Siggiewi and the refurbishing of the Msida Distribution Center, a complex project that involves maintaining its operations while doubling its output and transitioning to new equipment.
“Progress is steady, with plans also underway to issue a tender for another underground cable to support the second interconnector, slated for installation by late 2026 or early 2027. This ongoing infrastructure development ensures readiness for future enhancements to our system.”
In this regard, Enemalta has collaborated with a host of local and international partners, including government agencies and research institutions. The company participated in Energy Week in London and recently attended meetings in Brussels with other members of Eurelectric.
“I particularly look forward to engaging with countries like Japan, which is known for its robust infrastructure and expertise in this field. We are open to collaborations and eager to explore potential synergies with such nations,” Fava said.
Partnerships could play a vital role in Malta’s energy sector and Fava remains confident that the country can overcome the challenges ahead. “Given Malta’s economic growth, maintaining a robust infrastructure is paramount to meet the increasing demand for electricity from both residential and commercial sectors,” Fava added.
“Our goal is to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply to all residents and businesses, especially with the rising popularity of electric appliances and vehicles. Additionally, we are investing in projects like shore-to-ship supply to promote a greener environment. Despite the challenges posed by the growing demand for electricity, we are committed to ensuring the reliability and sustainability of our grid system.”
www.enemalta.com.mt
https://info.japantimes.co.jp/international-reports/pdf/20240531-GI_Malta.pdf
www.global-insight.net
