A €170 million investment to double the energy supply by way of a second interconnector to Sicily, has been announced by Energy Minister Miriam Dalli art of the next phase for Malta’s energy sector.

She explained that a comprehensive study confirms investment in the energy sector will allow energy supply to meet the demand.

Minister Dalli announced that the Cabinet led by Prime Minister Robert Abela had approved the proposal as part of the government’s energy plan.

The Minister explained that, “this decision will strengthen the link between Malta and Europe, allowing our country to double its connectivity with the European energy grid. This will allow Malta to increase its security of supply.”

The second interconnector will have a capacity of 200MW, with a similar connection to the first interconnector. While work was being done on the first interconnector, the government had already planned the infrastructure for a second interconnector.

The Minister said that these preparations include a reactor and the foundation for the switchgear in Ragusa, and another switchgear and the control switch in Malta.

“For Malta to meet its targets of reducing emissions from the generation and energy use and to respond to the ever-increasing demand generated by economic growth, we need to continue diversifying and strengthening our sources. With the second interconnector, Malta is expected to reduce such emissions by 58%,” said Minister Dalli.

The next steps include updating the 2015 technical design, launching an underwater study, issuing a call for tenders and renewing the development permits in Malta and Italy. All this is based on a comprehensive study which analyses the demand for the energy supply over the coming 15 years.

The study looked at a number of alternative connections, risks and advantages. The Ragusa connection was confirmed as the best option with the least risks and offering the best grid stability.

Photo: DOI/Clodagh O’Neill

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