VALLETTA (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The Maltese government has identified two suitable sites for wind farms from the initial six in Malta’s Exclusive Economic Zone. However, it did not say where the shortlisted sites are located due to further on-site studies are needed to reduce technical risks and uncertainties.
The wind vanes are expected to start turning in 2030 and the wind farm would generate 300 megawatts. By comparison, the interconnector between Malta and Sicily generates 200 megawatts, and the two LNG plants generate 200 and 150 megawatts.
Energy Minister Miriam Dalli told parliament that preparatory work for a call for investment in offshore windfarms is underway.
After the identification of six sites in the National Policy for the Deployment of Offshore Renewable Energy, technical experts conducted further studies to determine their technical and economic viability with the least environmental impact. Various issues were factored in, including the suitability of the available technology on the basis of the depth of the sea.
The sites had been shortlisted and, after a call for tender, one would be used for wind energy. The results of geophysical studies would be attached to the call for tenders.
Last year six international companies in the offshore wind business have shown an interest in Malta’s offshore renewable energy policy. They were among 64 entities and individuals who submitted their views on the National Policy for the Development of Offshore Renewable Energy when it was open to the public for consultation.
Malta’s first-ever national policy for offshore renewable energy was announced in August last year, with plans to have the first wind or solar floating farms located between 12 and 25 nautical miles off Malta.
-photo Agenzia Fotogramma –
(ITALPRESS)
