€86 Million EU Funding To Upgrade Malta’s Water & Wastewater Infrastructure
Malta’s national investment plan to modernise the management and long term sustainability of the water and wastewater sector is gathering momentum, supported by several projects that have already qualified for EU funding and national financing.
The plan represents one of the most comprehensive sectoral investments undertaken in recent years, aimed at strengthening water security and preparing the country for future environmental and demographic pressures.
During a press conference addressed by Energy Minister Dr Miriam Dalli and European Funds Minister Dr Stefan Zrinzo Azzopardi, the Water Services Corporation outlined a substantial programme of works that will be carried out across both water production and wastewater management systems.
Minister Dalli noted that the ten year strategy is designed to ensure that Malta remains equipped to meet growing demand while continuing to safeguard national resources. She emphasised the importance of strategic investment in order to guarantee reliable water production and effective sewage treatment in the years ahead.
The projects included in the plan aim to increase production capacity, enhance water quality, limit seawater intrusion, reduce the risk of overflows, and reinforce the wastewater network so that it can better withstand seasonal peaks and population growth. The plan also supports an increase in the production of New Water, which is used for agricultural irrigation and the upkeep of public green spaces.
Minister Zrinzo Azzopardi highlighted the critical role of European funding in enabling Malta to continue investing in modern and resilient infrastructure. He referred to previous EU funded initiatives, such as Gozo’s first reverse osmosis plant which opened four years ago and now provides high quality water to thousands of residents.
He explained that such projects demonstrate the practical benefits that European support is delivering to communities and stressed that continued investment is essential for maintaining national security and ensuring resilience to climate related challenges.
Works announced by WSC Chief Executive Karl Cilia include extensive upgrades to Malta’s reverse osmosis plants, allowing for greater efficiency and improved water quality. New pumping mains and enhanced reservoir links are being constructed to strengthen supply reliability.
Network upgrades in areas such as Selmun, Gozo, and the Three Cities are expected to reduce leakage and provide a more consistent level of service. Further investment in groundwater collection and new laboratory equipment will support ongoing improvements in water quality.
Significant wastewater projects are also progressing across Malta. These include micro tunnelling, sewer lining, the replacement of ageing pressure mains, and the construction of new galleries in several localities. Expansions to the wastewater treatment plants in Malta North and Gozo will ensure that rising demand can be met efficiently.
Malta’s National Investment Plan allocates more than 370 million euros between 2023 and 2033, supported by EU co financing and the Water Services Corporation’s green bonds.
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