Third Malta-Sicily energy interconnector at centre of energy plan

Malta has taken another decisive step towards a sustainable future with the launch of a national plan for the energy sector, setting out how the country will transition towards cleaner, more secure and more efficient energy in the years ahead.

The plan was presented for a 4-week public consultation by Robert Abela alongside Energy Minister Miriam Dalli, outlining a long-term vision that positions the energy sector as a key pillar of a new phase of prosperity for Malta and Gozo.

Speaking during the news conference, PM Abela guaranteed security of supply of electircity and fuels, amidst the current international developments, which also sees brent crude oil prices today reaching prices higher than 2022. He said that Malta’s economic outlook will make it possible for prices to remain stable, and will also make it possible for the Government to turn these challenging times into feasible opportunities.

*A new phase building on a decade of transformation*

Addressing the launch, the Prime Minister placed the plan within the wider journey Malta has undergone over the past decade, describing the transformation of the energy sector as one of the foundations of the country’s economic success.

He recalled how, as early as 2013, Government took bold decisions to shift away from the most polluting heavy fuel oil towards cleaner energy sources, while investing in the first interconnector and launching strong incentives to boost renewable energy.

“These were changes that strengthened our economy while significantly improving air quality and the quality of life of our families,” Dr Abela said, underlining that these decisions were not only environmental, but social and economic in their impact.

He stressed that the country is now ready to move to the next level, with a plan that will deliver a more diversified and cleaner energy mix, ensuring both efficiency and long-term security.

“At a time when we have launched Malta Vision 2050, this is the moment to take the next leap,” he said, describing the plan as a natural continuation of Government’s long-term strategy.

*Less dependence, more opportunity through renewables*

The Prime Minister made it clear that reducing Malta’s dependence on traditional energy sources remains a central objective.

He described renewable energy not as a challenge, but as a national opportunity, pointing to offshore wind projects in Malta’s Exclusive Economic Zone as a key step in expanding clean energy generation.

Dr Abela also highlighted Government’s commitment to ensuring that more people can participate in this transition, announcing continued strong incentives to support investment in renewables.

Among these, he referred to schemes such as solar panel initiatives for households without rooftops, which will give hundreds of families the opportunity to invest in renewable energy.

“This shows our commitment to continue decarbonising our economy,” he said, reinforcing a message of a Government that is both forward-looking and inclusive.

*Gozo to lead as a carbon-neutral island*

A key highlight of the plan is the ambition for Gozo to become the first carbon-neutral part of the country.

The Prime Minister described this as a clear signal of Government’s belief in Gozo’s potential, announcing investment in a submarine cable linking Malta and Gozo to strengthen energy connectivity and resilience.

“We believe in Gozo’s potential,” he said, explaining that this investment will help create a more sustainable and self-sufficient energy system for the island.

*A plan that protects families and businesses*

Energy Minister Miriam Dalli placed strong emphasis on the social dimension of the plan, stressing that the transition to a carbon-neutral economy will be carried out without placing additional burdens on families or businesses.

“This is a plan that will lead Malta towards a carbon-free economy while continuing to offer stability in energy prices,” she said.

Dr Dalli underlined that protecting citizens remains a central priority, noting that Government’s approach ensures that the transition is managed in a way that safeguards both households and economic competitiveness.

She described the strategy as a living document—one that is already being implemented in several areas, while remaining flexible enough to respond to evolving global realities.

“This is a plan that recognises what is happening around us and adapts accordingly,” she said, highlighting its dynamic nature and long-term relevance.

*Major projects to strengthen Malta’s energy system*

The plan outlines a number of ongoing and future projects aimed at strengthening Malta’s energy infrastructure and ensuring long-term resilience.

These include the second interconnector with Sicily, currently under implementation, as well as plans for a third interconnector that will further diversify Malta’s energy supply.

Additional investments will focus on battery storage systems, smart meters, and digital platforms to modernise the sector and improve efficiency.

Together, these initiatives form part of a broader strategy that combines affordability, security and sustainability, ensuring that Malta’s energy system remains robust while transitioning towards cleaner sources.

*A long-term vision for prosperity*

At its core, the national energy plan is about more than infrastructure—it is about building a stronger future for Malta and Gozo.

The Prime Minister described the vision as another step towards creating new prosperity, where economic growth, environmental sustainability and social wellbeing go hand in hand.

“This vision for energy is another seed in the new prosperity we want to create for our country,” he said.

With public consultation now underway, the plan marks the beginning of

the next phase in Malta’s energy journey, one that aims to deliver security, sustainability and improved quality of life for generations to come.

Further information about the public consultation, as well as submissions can be made at publicconsultation.gov.mt