“With Malta tripling its renewable energy share and registering one of the most notable year-on-year increases among EU Member States in 2024, this journey is a showcase of how, through vision, collaboration, and determination, even the smallest nations can lead in the global energy transition," stated Energy Minister Miriam Dalli.
Addressing the 16th session of the Assembly of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Minister Dalli explained how Malta is advancing policy, infrastructure, and innovation, with a strong focus on increasing renewable energy generation, enhancing interconnectivity and upgrading its electricity network.
Minister Dalli explained that Malta's National Policy on Offshore Renewables establishes marine-based zones for wind and solar projects with benefits to attract investment. She continued explaining how Malta is working towards developing its first deep-water offshore wind farm beyond 12 nautical miles, with up to 320 MW capacity, serving as a regional model.
She stated that Malta is further investing in large-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems and grid upgrades to address intermittency issues and ensure a higher percentage of renewables on the islands. She continued that the second interconnector will double our EU energy capacity, boosting renewables and stabilising the grid.
“By 2030, we aim to cut greenhouse gases by 41% from 2005 levels and raise renewable energy to about 25%. Our vision is to create green jobs, position Malta as a sustainable energy leader and collaborate regionally to help the Mediterranean develop into a green energy hub," she said, whilst highlighting that Malta, through the MED9 conference of energy ministers, brought together for the first time the nine EU member states of the Mediterranean to pave the way for a green energy Mediterranean hub.
“With the strengthening of relations between Malta and IRENA, the international agency can also contribute to the expansion of this vision, laid out during the MED9 conference. The collaboration between IRENA and Malta grows stronger every year and this year we are proud to be chosen as one of the facilitators of the important discussions focusing on increased access to renewable energy," said Dr Dalli.
In comments to various international media outlets, Dr Miriam Dalli explained that, despite the country's unique geographical constraints and limited land availability, Malta's progress is led by innovation and determination. “The government has strategically prioritised offshore renewable energy, particularly floating offshore wind, as a key pillar of the transition. These offshore projects are intended to complement continued investment in rooftop and innovative solar solutions, maximising what can realistically be deployed on the island," Minister Dalli said.
The IRENA Assembly is attended by ministers, high-level officials, and representatives from 139 countries, different institutions and the European Union. The goal is to create a shared agenda and set priorities for international collaboration in pursuit of a better energy future.
Photo: MEEC
