Completion Of 15 “Solar Flowers” At The Gozo Multi-Modal Hub In Ta’ Xħajma

Minister for Gozo and Planning, Clint Camilleri, together with the Parliamentary Secretary for Public Works, Omar Farrugia, announced the completion of 15 “solar flowers” at the Gozo Multi-Modal Hub in Ta’ Xħajma the first installation of its kind in Europe. This initiative forms part of the Government’s ongoing investment in sustainable transport infrastructure and clean energy.

These innovative solar systems, known as solar flowers, are inspired by the natural movement of sunflowers. Each unit automatically opens at sunrise, tracks the sun throughout the day, and closes at night. Thanks to this intelligent mechanism, each solar flower can generate up to 40% more energy compared with traditional solar panels, ensuring maximum efficiency and performance.

Minister Camilleri stated that the project at the Ta’ Xħajma Hub represents another step towards an environmentally conscious future for Gozo and aligns with the objectives of the Gozo Village Island Strategy and Vision for Gozo 2050.

“This technology will provide alternative energy and is the first of its kind in our country, and the second in the world of its scale. It also strengthens the Park and Ride facility, offering multiple modes of transport. Moreover, the energy generated will power the lighting and the electric buses operating between Mġarr Harbour and the park and ride. This is an innovative project that demonstrates how continued investment in alternative, clean energy technology benefits everyone,” Minister Camilleri explained.

“By installing these first solar flowers in Europe, we show how Gozo can be a leader in sustainable innovation. The project not only reduces emissions and operational costs but also demonstrates how modern technology can be applied practically to improve quality of life and build a greener, more resilient economy,” he added.

Parliamentary Secretary Omar Farrugia highlighted that the project positions Malta and Gozo as a model for other countries pursuing a sustainable, renewable-energy-based future. “The synergy between departments and our vision for Malta and Gozo has brought us to today’s unique European solar installation. These projects reflect the Public Works Department’s commitment to advancing renewable and sustainable energy initiatives, ensuring that, through Vision 2050, our country continues to progress,” Farrugia said.

The clean energy generated by the 15 solar flowers will directly offset the electricity used to charge the fleet of electric buses servicing the Park and Ride. This integration of renewable energy with sustainable mobility represents a circular, self-sufficient approach to decarbonising transport, reducing both emissions and operational costs, while contributing to Malta’s national climate and energy targets.

The Solar Flowers project falls under the RRP C1-I5 Renewable Energy Investments in Roads and Public Spaces initiative, part of the European Union’s NextGenerationEU Recovery and Resilience Plan.

With an investment of approximately €850,000, the project is carried out in collaboration with EkoGħawdex under the Ministry for Gozo and Planning, alongside the Public Works Department. It is a clear example of how innovation, renewable energy, and sustainable transport can work hand in hand to deliver a smarter, cleaner, and more resilient future for Gozo.

#MaltaDaily