Government presents updated National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) to European Commission

By: independent.com.mt

Jan 07 2025
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The government has presented the updated National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) to the European Commission, the Energy Ministry said in a statement Tuesday. The government remains committed to addressing climate change while promoting sustainable economic growth and, at the same time, keeping its pledge not to overburden citizens in order to meet these targets, the statement said.

The plan leads to a total reduction of 41% in greenhouse gas emissions compared to 2005 levels by 2030, even though today's economic activity is far greater than it was in 2005 and is expected to keep growing. Key changes are taking place in the energy, waste management, industry, and transport sectors, it added.

Malta will see a 77% reduction in emissions from energy generation compared to 2005, primarily due to the switch from heavy fuel oil to gas and the use of electricity interconnectors, one of which was completed in recent years, with another expected to be completed in the coming years. Large-scale battery storage installations, an innovative first of their kind, will also be set up, allowing renewable energy to be used at night, the ministry said.

Malta is also committed to increasing the share of renewable energy to around 25% of total energy consumption by 2030, thus surpassing previously set targets. Looking ahead, the government has just issued an ambitious international call for proposals to produce wind energy, an initiative intended to benefit future generations as well, the statement added.

The waste sector, which has already undergone major changes, is expected to see a 59% reduction in emissions compared to 2021 levels. This is thanks to pre-sorting facilities, organic waste treatment plants, gas extraction systems that divert waste away from landfill, and the implementation of Waste-to-Energy projects.

Greater efforts are needed in the transport sector, which accounts for 37% of Malta's emissions. Here, citizens will continue to be incentivised to switch to electric vehicles, while road infrastructure improvements proceed, and a national plan addressing the traffic challenge is discussed and implemented.

The construction sector also needs to make changes to become more sustainable. Government aims to support citizens and businesses in implementing these changes. This includes updating Technical Document F for building efficiency, feed-in tariffs, battery energy storage, heat pumps, solar water heaters, the recently relaunched "Irrinova Darek" scheme for families, as well as the "Smart and Sustainable" schemes for businesses. The mandatory installation of renewable energy sources on buildings that reach the maximum permitted height, along with prioritised approvals, will also accelerate the shift towards cleaner energy.

Collaboration with stakeholders from different fields is crucial to the successful implementation of this plan. Industry experts, environmental organisations, and the public have all contributed and will continue to have an important role, ensuring that challenges are addressed effectively.

"This plan represents a transformative commitment to strengthen Malta's sustainability and resilience. We have undertaken, are undertaking, and will continue to make major changes. As Government, we firmly believe that citizens are integral to making this plan work; at the same time, we want citizens to be part of the plan by avoiding the mistake of thinking we can move faster by placing burdens on them that they cannot bear. There are cultural changes we need to make, but there are also many areas where we provide incentives, rather than penalties. Without this approach, climate action cannot be truly successful," said Minister Miriam Dalli.