Climate change targets
A Climate Action Authority will be set up to assist with reaching climate neutrality by 2050 in line with the stated aims of the European Union.
Energy production including renewable energy
- New schemes to be launched to encourage investment in renewable energy in relation to photovoltaic systems, renewable power storage batteries, heat pump water heaters and the restoration of wells in old houses.
- Extension of schemes for private investors to develop large renewable energy installations with additional schemes being launched for even larger installations generating more than 1MWp.
- The Government is working on various projects for energy storage systems using batteries with the first project being implemented at the Delimara power station.
- Studies in relation to renewable offshore energy and the use of hydrogen for local industry fuel needs.
- The Government continues with plans for a second interconnector between Malta and Sicily.
Transport
- Work is ongoing on the installation of 1,200 electric vehicle charging stations around Malta and Gozo (so far 372 have been installed). Furthermore, the Government is working to have one national digital platform integrating the charging station network.
- Extension of sustainable transport schemes such as: grant schemes for the purchase of new electric vehicles, motorcycles and e-bikes; scrappage of older vehicles; conversion of vehicles to run on LPG; wheelchair accessible taxis; as well as the introduction of incentives relating to personal e-scooters.
- Extension of the exemption from registration tax and first 5 years’ road licence for electric and hybrid vehicles.
- Extension of shore to ship system in the Grand Harbour and continuation of installation of such a system in the Freeport.
The Environment: Urban and Green spaces, Water and Waste
- In the coming years there will be further projects for the regeneration of public and green spaces, including at Ta’ Qali, Santa Lucija, Kalkara and Marsaskala.
- Schemes to be re-launched for facade restoration works for certain properties.
- Preparations are currently underway in order to implement Sustainable Urban Development through €58 million of EU Funds focused on Gozo.
- Continuation of other projects including the ECOHIVE waste management project; reverse osmosis extension, replacement of old water mains pipes and studies on land reclamation.
Sustainable Finance
Launching of discussions regarding potential fiscal incentives to encourage investments in sustainable finance such as green bonds.
Other measures and incentives
- Extension of sustainability-related schemes such as the Smart and Sustainable Investment Grant Scheme, Investment Aid for Energy Efficiency Projects, ESG Grant Scheme and free energy audits for SMEs.
- An extension to the scheme for the installation of water purifying equipment.