Malta Freeport Terminals and Medelec complete major upgrade of primary distribution substation

Malta Freeport Terminals and Medelec have successfully completed a major upgrade of the Freeport’s primary electricity distribution substation, further strengthening the resilience, reliability and future capacity of one of the Mediterranean’s busiest transhipment hubs.

This substantial investment by the Freeport involved the complete replacement and modernisation of the medium-voltage switchgear and extensive refurbishment of the substation building, with all works carefully planned and executed while maintaining uninterrupted operations across the terminal.

The new medium-voltage switchgear was installed alongside the existing equipment, enabling the transfer of electrical circuits in phases without disrupting power supply to the terminal.

The upgraded distribution centre also includes a fully refurbished building envelope, with new doors and apertures to ensure an airtight environment, together with new air-conditioning systems, fire detection and alarm systems, and CCTV installations.

The project features Medelec’s locally factory-assembled MSGair medium-voltage switchgear, designed and manufactured in Malta in accordance with the internationally recognised IEC 62271-200 standard. The equipment has undergone independent type testing at the Cesi laboratories in Milan, confirming compliance with stringent international performance and safety requirements.

The new switchgear provides Malta Freeport Terminals with significant operational advantages. Its modular design allows for future expansion as the terminal’s electrical infrastructure continues to evolve, while the additional bus arrangement and ringed circuit capability substantially improves operational flexibility and network resilience.

The system has also been designed with safety and ease of operation as key priorities. All normal switching operations can be carried out with compartment doors closed, enhancing operator protection, while the equipment can be controlled both locally and through the terminal’s Scada system, providing greater operational flexibility.

Alex Montebello, chief executive officer at Malta Freeport Terminals, said the project represented another important investment in the terminal’s critical infrastructure.

“The reliability of our electrical distribution network is fundamental to maintaining the high levels of operational performance expected by our customers, and this upgrade provides us with a more resilient, flexible and future-ready system while ensuring the highest standards of safety and operational efficiency.”

David Fenech, Commercial manager at Medelec, said: “We are grateful to MFT’s chief engineering officer James Peter Alsop and his engineering team for the confidence they placed in Medelec and for the excellent cooperation shown throughout every stage of this project. Our team is proud to have contributed to another important milestone in Malta Freeport Terminals’ continued development.”

The successful completion of the project further reinforces Malta Freeport Terminals’ ongoing investment programme aimed at strengthening operational resilience, supporting future growth and ensuring the terminal continues to operate to the highest international standards.