During a meeting of the Malta Council for Economic and Social Development (MCESD), the social partners together with Minister for the Environment and Energy Dr Miriam Dalli, Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue Dr Andy Ellul, and MCESD Chairperson Perit David Xuereb held extensive discussions on the Government’s vision and the continuous investment taking place in the fields of energy and water in Malta.
In presentations delivered by the CEO of the Water Services Corporation (WSC), Karl Cilia, and Eng. Etienne Lewis from Enemalta, details were provided about the ongoing investment in the water sector and the intensive work currently underway on the electricity distribution network. More than €120 million in investment led to a historic leap in water quality in Malta. During the meeting, the social partners were able to participate in an initiative promoting tap water by being offered bottled tap water. The presentation also offered an update on the National Investment Plan of €310 million for the next ten years, as well as on green bonds and sustainable projects. It was explained how the Corporation is continuing to improve water quality and safety, while also strengthening its infrastructure.
From Enemalta’s side, it was explained that the company is continuing to strengthen the electricity distribution system, as announced in the previous meeting with the social partners. A plan was presented showing that, just as in 2024 it laid 82 kilometres of cables, Enemalta is currently strengthening the network further by laying another 60 kilometres of new underground cables. During this same meeting, an EU–funded project was launched for an additional 15 kilometres of new medium-voltage underground cables in Birkirkara, Marsascala, and Mġarr. It was also explained that work is underway on the distribution centres in Msida upgrading the infrastructure to double their capacity, upgrading Mosta and St Andrew’s distribution centres, and works have also started to commission two new distribution centres in Naxxar and Siġġiewi.
“In a world where we are witnessing growing geopolitical challenges, with continuous threats to the global economy, it is more important than ever that we continue to invest in sustainability; in a country that is more resilient, a country that offers flexibility,” said Minister Miriam Dalli. “The work being undertaken by these two entities is precisely aimed at: ensuring that flexibility goes hand in hand with sustainability, built on resilience. We see this in different areas of their work.”
Parliamentary Secretary for Social Dialogue Andy Ellul described this consultation as one that is bolstering the national plan for the sustainability of Malta’s water sector, aimed at providing peace of mind for businesses, workers, and their families regarding a secure supply of water. He noted that with the installation of new underground cables, the Government will also be assuring a stable electricity supply.
“These are crucial strategic investments in our country’s infrastructure so that businesses and workers can continue operating in the most efficient manner,” stressed Dr Ellul. These decisions complement other political measures taken by the Government, primarily the stability of electricity and water prices, which has ensured a predictable and sustainable livelihood for businesses and workers alike.
The parliamentary secretary concluded by stating that the Maltese Council for Economic and Social Development remains the platform that will continue contributing to the sustainability of Malta’s economy and its citizens.
Chairperson of the MCESD, Perit David Xuereb, welcomed the fact that, for the fifth time, Minister Miriam Dalli chose to update and consult directly with the Council regarding the continuous strengthening of electricity distribution in our country. This meeting also served as a clear opportunity for social partners to express their views and comments on these crucial developments for the entire nation.
During this meeting, the Water Services Corporation (WSC) also addressed the MCESD regarding improvements in water distribution and the drainage system. The social partners had the opportunity to also discuss the ‘Tap Water’ initiative, where, after being presented with samples to drink, they shared their positive feedback on this progress. They emphasised how this initiative can reduce dependence on plastic bottles and help Malta move forward toward a more sustainable future – a vision that the MCESD fully supports.
Photo: MEEC/OPM_PS
