The CEO of ElectroGas Malta, Jorge Pérez, emphasised that a diversified energy mix is crucial to ensuring a secure power supply. Speaking to The Malta Business Weekly, Perez stressed that countries, particularly smaller ones like Malta, cannot rely solely on a single energy source.
Perez, who was appointed CEO of ElectroGas Malta in June 2024, explained: “The most important factor in guaranteeing a reliable electricity supply is having a mix of generation sources. If a country depends entirely on one type of power generation, it is only a matter of time before problems arise – problems that inevitably impact the population.”
He highlighted Enemalta’s approach as a positive example: “It’s not just one or two power plants providing energy. There is also an interconnector with another country, as well as PV panels on rooftops. This diversity ensures that electricity comes from multiple sources, which is becoming essential for energy security.”
While ElectroGas plays a central role in Malta’s energy landscape, Pérez noted that the company is only one part of the wider system. “Our priority is to deliver the country’s base load. That responsibility provides peace of mind to Malta, knowing that we are here to ensure supply stability.”
Reflecting on his 14 months with the company, Perez praised ElectroGas employees for their professionalism and sense of responsibility. “Our staff are deeply aware of the importance of their work. We make sure to recognise their contribution, as their efforts directly impact society,” he said.
He recalled a recent blackout in Spain that had fatal consequences due to the loss of critical devices and phone networks. “Events like that remind us that this work has a real impact – and we take that responsibility very seriously,” Perez added.
Delimara plant cannot cover peak demand alone
Perez acknowledged that Malta’s Delimara power station would not be able to meet the island’s peak electricity demand on its own if the interconnector with Italy were to fail.
The ElectroGas CEO confirmed that the company’s Delimara 4 power plant produces more than 46% of Malta’s electricity. In addition, ElectroGas supplies gas to Enemalta’s Delimara 3 plant, bringing the company’s contribution to around 60% of the island’s total energy use.
However, Pérez cautioned that without the interconnector, Malta would struggle to meet summer peak demand. “For peak season in summer, probably not,” he admitted when asked whether the Delimara station could compensate for a complete interconnector failure.
He stressed that ElectroGas supports Enemalta’s strategy and in strengthening national resilience: “As operators of one of the country’s most critical facilities, and as a key player in the local energy mix, we actively support Enemalta’s efforts to enhance national resilience.”
Renewal talks with Enemalta yet to begin
ElectroGas’ contract with Enemalta requires it to supply electricity for 18 years, with nearly half that period already elapsed. Perez confirmed that discussions about renewing the agreement have not yet started.
“It is still too early for those talks,” he said. “When the time comes, the decision will depend on whether Enemalta is satisfied with our performance. We are proud of the work being done here and continue to invest in upgrades, such as the upgrade of the gas turbines, to improve efficiency.”
Regarding fuel supply, Pérez noted that Delimara currently relies on a gas tanker, which was originally intended as a temporary solution until the Malta-Italy pipeline is completed. “At this stage, I have not heard of any changes from Enemalta. They are the decision-makers on gas supply, and I don’t expect developments in the short-term. The LNG terminal can always offer flexibility and diversify gas supply to Malta. This is in line with the trend in other European countries which are heavily reliant on Russian gas,” he said.
Sustainability, ESG, and community engagement
Since Pérez’s arrival, ElectroGas has strengthened its focus on sustainability and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) commitments.
“This plant replaced a heavy fuel oil facility, reducing particulate and SOx emissions by 90% thanks to LNG. It’s a major improvement for Marsaxlokk and the surrounding communities,” he said.
The company has increased its community outreach, running initiatives such as its Community Investment Programme. Current projects include collaborations with NGOs like Inspire and the Red Cross, support for ambulance equipment, and environmental clean-ups.
Recently, ElectroGas partnered with an organisation representing Ukrainians in Malta, donating bicycles to refugee children and supermarket vouchers to families in need. “We want to be sustainable, but also to care for people in need and support society,” Pérez said.
Responding to negative publicity
ElectroGas has in the past been associated with public scrutiny and ongoing investigations. Pérez acknowledged this context but emphasised the company’s current direction: “Since joining ElectroGas, my experience has been that the company is operating to high professional and governance standards. Indeed, the governance here is among the best I have encountered. We continue to strengthen our compliance framework, align with international best practices, and maintain full transparency with our stakeholders. These efforts are essential to ensure that ElectroGas remains a trusted part of Malta’s energy future.”
He added that while external controversies may at times overshadow the company’s role, “what I see daily is the dedication of our people, whose work provides a vital service to the country. Their professionalism deserves recognition, and our focus is on building trust through consistent performance and responsible operations”.
