The Regulator for Energy and Water Services (REWS) received 13 distinct proposals for the potential development of floating solar farms in Maltese territorial waters. a statement said Saturday.
The submissions were made as part of the preliminary market consultation to assess the market’s readiness for the potential development of offshore solar farms, the REWS statement said.
The PMC identified an area four nautical miles off the coast of Delimara as the first possible site for the development of grid-connected floating solar technology projects, with a potential capacity of 50 megawatts of renewable energy.
The response from potential investors was substantial, reflecting Malta’s potential for green energy with submissions received from both local and international operators.
“The strong interest shown by investors reflects the credibility that Malta is garnering in its energy sector, including renewable energy. The government is already investing a lot in supporting households and businesses that wish to invest in cleaner energy. Now, we are pushing for the next level by assessing the potential to develop floating solar farms,” Energy Minister Miriam Dalli said.
REWS CEO Ing. Marjohn Abela explained that the Regulator will now review the submissions received. A committee of technical experts will be set up to evaluate the proposals submitted and depending on the outcome of this review, the Regulator might request further clarifications from the proponents.
“The aim of the PMC is to evaluate investors’ interest and assess how prepared the market is for such projects. It also supports ongoing work, paving the way for an eventual competitive call for offers,” Ing. Marjohn Abela explained.