Malta’s innovative onshore power supply project is now operational in the Grand Harbour, representing a €33 million investment co-financed by the European Connecting Europe Facility fund. This initiative allows cruise liners to connect to a ground-based electricity system, significantly reducing pollution by enabling ships to  turn off their engines while berthed. The project promises a 90% reduction in ship-generated pollution, greatly improving air quality for approximately 17,000 local families.

Prime Minister Robert Abela highlighted the project’s significance for Malta’s environmental goals, emphasising its role in fostering sustainable and innovative practices in the maritime sector. Abela noted the crucial impact of this project on public health, despite its lack of visibility compare to other infrastructure projects.

This project, which was started in late 2020 during the epidemic, establishes Malta as an example in Europe and can supply electricity to up to five cruise ships at once from the beach. By distributing 64MVA of power over several quays, the system reduces CO2 emissions by approximately 40%, or 30,400 tonnes of CO2 yearly.

Transport Minister Chris Bonett praised the collaboration between infrastructure Malta, Transport Malta, and other partners in achieving this milestone. The project’s infrastructure, including frequency converters and extensive power cables, ensures efficient electricity distribution.

Making the first electrical supply to the cruise ship MSC World Europa is a big step in the direction of decarbonising maritime operations.

#MaltaDaily