At a crucial meeting of EU Energy Ministers held in Brussels today, Malta underscored the need for enhanced support for countries on the periphery of the European Union. These nations face challenges due to their limited integration into the European energy network and restricted opportunities for expanding renewable energy sources.

Malta, while currently connected to the European electricity grid, has yet to establish a connection to the European gas grid. This lack of full integration presents unique challenges for the island nation in its transition towards clean energy.

Energy Minister Miriam Dalli highlighted the critical importance of a fair transition to clean energy, ensuring no country is left behind. She stressed the necessity of equitable distribution of funding for energy projects, particularly to support innovative initiatives like offshore floating projects.

Minister Dalli called for substantial investments in infrastructure across all member states. She emphasized the need for more interconnections and greater flexibility in investments, particularly in energy storage solutions such as mass battery systems. These measures are essential for moving beyond reliance on polluting energy sources.

Additionally, Minister Dalli pointed out the significant renewable energy potential in countries bordering the European Union. She urged the European Commission to negotiate regional agreements between the EU and third countries, ensuring that all member states can benefit from regional interconnection projects.

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The Minister for Transport, Infrastructure, and Public Works, Chris Bonett, has officially inaugurated two newly constructed bridges providing access to Fort Sant’ Anġlu in Birgu. This significant project, aimed at enhancing both vehicular and pedestrian access, involved an investment of around three million euros.

Infrastructure Malta spearheaded the development, replacing the former single bridge with two distinct structures: one for pedestrians and another for vehicles. This initiative followed the collapse of part of the original bridge in June of last year. The original bridge, constructed by the British Services, was not designed to handle the increased weight of modern vehicles, leading to its deterioration and eventual closure to vehicular traffic.

Minister Bonett highlighted the government’s dedication to creating safer and higher-quality infrastructure. “Such projects are the result of the Government’s commitment to create a safer and higher quality infrastructure while in an area like Birgu Waterfront the best facilities are provided for Maltese people, tourists, and people who make use of the Navy,” he stated. Bonett commended Infrastructure Malta for their efficient work and professional results, which reflect the vision of a “beautiful and modern” Malta.

When the project was initiated in January, Minister Bonett had promised swift completion with minimal inconvenience to the public. The inauguration of the bridges fulfills that promise, providing secure access for all visitors to the site.

Ivan Falzon, CEO of Infrastructure Malta, remarked on the agency’s focus on improving accessibility and ensuring safe and efficient travel. “Hidmet Infrastructure Malta will continue to be focused on improving accessibility while ensuring that everyone reaches their destination safely and efficiently,” Falzon said.

Throughout the project, Infrastructure Malta maintained close collaboration with the Superintendence of Cultural Heritage to preserve the historical significance of the site. This entity was involved from the project’s inception and played a key role in the design and oversight of the work. A restoration project is also underway to preserve the structure of the old bridge, which will be exhibited within the confines of the site.

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