Prime Minister Robert Abela Inaugurates MSC Explora II’s First Shore-to-Ship Connection In Malta’s Grand Harbour
For the first time in Malta’s Grand Harbour, MSC’s Explora II has successfully connected to the shore-to-ship power system, marking a milestone in the country’s drive towards sustainable maritime practices.
The event was attended by Prime Minister Robert Abela, who toured the vessel at Boiler Wharf in Senglea and highlighted the environmental and economic benefits of Malta’s pioneering shore power initiative.
Prime Minister Abela highlighted the positive impact of Malta’s shore-to-ship power project, operational for over a year. The initiative is significantly improving air quality for roughly 17,000 residents living around the Grand Harbour, with ship-generated emissions expected to decrease by an impressive 90% by 2030. Over the past year, the system has been used on 80 calls, supplying approximately 3.7 million kilowatt-hours of electricity. This represents a strong utilisation rate compared to other major European ports, particularly as many vessels are still being retrofitted to support shore power connectivity.
Prime Minister Robert Abela Inaugurates MSC Explora II’s First Shore-to-Ship Connection In Malta’s Grand Harbour
Accompanied by Minister for the Environment, Energy and Public Cleanliness Miriam Dalli and Minister for Transport, Infrastructure and Public Works Chris Bonett, Prime Minister Abela underlined the ongoing progress on other shore-to-ship connections under development at both the Grand Harbour and the Freeport.
He stated, “We are demonstrating how Malta is combining economic growth with environmental responsibility. The shore power system in the Grand Harbour is an investment in cleaner air and sustainable tourism, an area in which we want to continue to attract high quality. We are setting a new standard for the Mediterranean region.”
Prime Minister Robert Abela Inaugurates MSC Explora II’s First Shore-to-Ship Connection In Malta’s Grand Harbour
Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of the Cruise Division of the MSC Group, said: “These developments show how technology and investment can deliver immediate environmental benefits. Malta was the first port in the Mediterranean to implement shore-to-ship power using sustainable infrastructure that supports both environmental objectives and tourism. We have a long-standing partnership with the Maltese Government, and we thank them for their continued support.”
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