Malta has announced its plan to launch an offshore energy and hydrogen strategy by 2025, focusing on developing offshore renewable energy and green hydrogen production. This initiative aims to enhance energy sustainability and reduce the country’s reliance on imported fossil fuels.
New Authority to Oversee Malta Green Hydrogen Strategy Projects
The government plans to establish a new authority to oversee the development of offshore renewable energy projects. This authority will manage the leasing of offshore areas for energy production, ensuring that projects are implemented efficiently and in line with national goals. Legislation to establish the authority is expected to be finalized by the end of 2025, with the first leasing process for offshore areas anticipated to begin in 2026.
Energy Minister Miriam Dalli emphasized the importance of this strategy, noting that it will enable Malta to harness its offshore resources for renewable energy production. “The strategy will guide us in using our offshore resources to generate renewable energy, which is crucial for our energy security and sustainability,” said Dalli.
Malta Green Hydrogen Strategy for Production and Storage
In addition to offshore energy, the strategy includes the development of green hydrogen production and storage facilities. Malta plans to produce green hydrogen by using renewable energy to electrolyze water, thereby creating a clean and sustainable energy source. This green hydrogen will be stored and used to power the country’s energy systems, reducing dependence on imported natural gas.
The Malta Energy Authority will play a key role in implementing the strategy, working to develop the necessary infrastructure for hydrogen production and storage. The authority will also oversee pilot projects aimed at testing the feasibility of hydrogen as a major energy source for the country.
European Grid Integration in the Malta Green Hydrogen Strategy
Another key component of the strategy is Malta’s plan to integrate its energy system with the European energy grid. The country aims to construct an additional interconnector that will link Malta to the European grid, allowing for the export of any surplus energy produced from renewable sources. This integration will not only provide Malta with access to a more stable and diversified energy supply but also create opportunities for the country to export renewable energy to other European nations.
Prime Minister Robert Abela highlighted the significance of this integration, stating, “By connecting Malta to the European energy grid, we are ensuring that our renewable energy efforts contribute to the broader European energy market. This will strengthen our position as a key player in the renewable energy sector.”
Government Targets 50% Renewable Energy by 2030 in Malta Green Hydrogen Strategy
The government has set ambitious targets for renewable energy, aiming to achieve 50% of the country’s energy consumption from renewable sources by 2030. To meet this goal, Malta plans to invest in additional renewable energy projects, including solar and wind power, as well as the development of new energy storage solutions.
Interestingly, Singapore has already reached its solar target ahead of schedule, supplying 4% of peak demand with solar power. This success story highlights the potential for accelerating green energy initiatives in smaller nations.
The offshore energy and hydrogen strategy, along with the integration into the European energy grid, are seen as critical steps in achieving these targets. The government is confident that these initiatives will not only help Malta reach its renewable energy goals but also position the country as a leader in the transition to a sustainable energy future.
The launch of the offshore energy and hydrogen strategy marks a significant milestone in Malta’s journey towards energy sustainability. With the establishment of a new authority, the development of green hydrogen production, and integration with the European energy grid, Malta is poised to become a key player in the renewable energy sector. This strategy not only aligns with the country’s long-term energy goals but also contributes to the global effort to combat climate change and promote sustainable development.
