VALLETTA (MALTA) (ITALPRESS/MNA) – The Maltese government has submitted its updated National Energy and Climate Plan to the European Commission, committing to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 41% compared to 2005 levels by 2030.
The commitment comes after EU data showed Malta once again topped the rankings for increases in greenhouse gas emissions, with almost a 9% increase compared to the previous year. This made Malta one of only seven countries in the bloc that failed to reduce emissions. “The government remains committed to tackling climate change while promoting sustainable economic growth and, at the same time, keeping its promise not to overburden citizens to achieve these goals”, the Ministry of Energy and the Environment said. Malta will see a 77% reduction in emissions from energy generation compared to 2005, mainly due to the shift from heavy fuel oil to gas and the use of electricity interconnections with mainland Europe. Large-scale battery storage facilities will also be installed, allowing renewable energy to be used at night. Malta has also committed to increasing the share of renewable energy to around 25% of total energy consumption by 2030, exceeding previously set targets. The Maltese government noted that it has just published an international call for proposals to produce wind energy. The Maltese government acknowledged that more efforts are needed in the transport sector, which accounts for 37% of emissions. It said that people will continue to be incentivised to switch to electric vehicles while road infrastructure is improved.
(ITALPRESS).
-Photo: Maltàs Tourism Office-
