Last Updated on Friday, 3 December, 2021 at 9:42 am by Andre Camilleri
Whilst addressing the Energy Council of the European Union, Minister for Energy, Enterprise and Sustainable Development Miriam Dalli made the case for tailored and specific measures required by different member states, particularly small member states like Malta, to weather the current international energy crisis. She emphasised Malta’s determination to ensure energy price stability on the Maltese islands.
During a meeting with other energy ministers in Brussels, Minister Dalli underscored the importance of identifying specific solutions to address the energy crisis that is affecting the whole of the European Union. These specific measures particularly aimed at small member states are urgently required to sustain industries and protect households and businesses.
For the longer term, Malta is exploring investments in further clean energy sources. “Malta is working hard to strengthen its energy capacity and to provide alternative sources of energy which are both clean and can ensure security of supply and price stability. This direction requires the European Commission’s support for such projects,” insisted Minister Miriam Dalli.
Ahead of the meeting in Brussels, the Agency for the Cooperation of Energy Regulators (ACER) issued a preliminary assessment which was discussed in depth, with proposals on how to address the issue of price spikes across the EU. Minister Dalli maintained that the commission needs to look at solutions that are strong enough to address the possibility that the spike in energy prices takes longer than originally predicted.
“This is precisely why the European Commission needs to support those member states that have national specificities which require tailor-made solutions. It is crucial that both at the national and at the EU level we ensure the safeguarding of our security of supply, whilst finding solutions to counter price volatility,” emphasised Minister Miriam Dalli.
