MCESD Discusses Energy Infrastructure and Equality Legislation with Government Representatives

The MCESD held an important meeting during which Enemalta presented an update on Malta’s energy demand, the current infrastructure and future investment plans.

Addressing the MCESD meeting on this agenda item were Hon. Miriam Dalli, Minister for Energy, the Environment and the Regeneration of the Grand Harbour; Hon. Keith Azzopardi Tanti, Minister for European Funds, Social Dialogue and Consumer Protection; Enemalta Executive Chairman Ing. Ryan Fava and representatives from Enemalta.

Addressing the MCESD, Enemalta provided an update on the progress of its ongoing investment programme aimed at strengthening Malta’s electricity distribution network. The company highlighted the improvements achieved through its €141 million investment programme (2023–2026), which is increasing network capacity, improving reliability and preparing the electricity system for future demand driven by electrification, renewable energy, industrial growth and major national projects.

Enemalta Executive Chairman Ing. Ryan Fava said that the company is investing not only to meet current electricity needs but also to build the network required for Malta’s future. He highlighted that, despite a significant increase in electricity demand, downtime on the medium-voltage network has been reduced by around 76% compared to 2023, demonstrating the positive impact of strategic investment in infrastructure. Ing. Fava also stressed that Enemalta is intensifying works on the low-voltage network, which directly serves households and businesses, while continuing to reinforce the electricity system to support Malta’s long-term energy, economic and sustainability objectives.

MCESD Chairperson Ms Maria Micallef welcomed the discussion and highlighted the importance of continued dialogue and consultation between the relevant stakeholders. She emphasised the value of discussing key national issues such as energy infrastructure, investment and future planning, which are important for ensuring a sustainable and resilient future for Malta.

The Council acknowledged and appreciated the continued commitment of Minister Miriam Dalli and Enemalta in regularly updating the MCESD and its social partners on ongoing works, investment plans and developments within Malta’s electricity distribution network. Members noted that these consultations contribute to greater transparency, informed discussion and closer cooperation between public authorities, Enemalta and the social partners as Malta continues to strengthen its energy infrastructure and prepare for future energy challenges and opportunities.

Social partners also acknowledged the scale of the ongoing investment programme and the improvements achieved in network reliability. They shared comments and observations on the matters discussed and emphasised the importance of continued dialogue and consultation among all stakeholders on issues related to Malta’s energy future and infrastructure development.

During the second part of the meeting, the MCESD welcomed Hon. Rosianne Cutajar, Minister for Equality and Civil Rights, and representatives from the Human Rights Directorate for a discussion on equality and human rights.

The discussion focused on the proposed legislation establishing the National Commission for Human Rights and Equality, which is intended to serve both as a National Human Rights Institution in line with the Paris Principles and as an Equality Body in accordance with relevant EU directives.

MCESD Chairperson Ms Maria Micallef welcomed the presentation and emphasised the importance of continued dialogue and consultation on matters relating to equality, human rights and social inclusion.

Social partners also shared comments and observations on the proposal and highlighted the importance of maintaining an open and constructive discussion among all stakeholders as the legislative process continues.

 

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