Earlier this week, Maltese MEP Josianne Cutajar represented the European Parliament, as part of an ITRE delegation visiting Milan. The delegation held numerous meetings with industry leaders in the field of energy, research and innovation.
During their stay in Milan, the MEPs also visited a hydropower plant from the early 1900s, as well as the Arena del Futuro where they had the opportunity to witness first-hand how electric vehicles can be charged using renewable energy whilst in motion.
Speaking about this visit, MEP Cutajar stated that innovation and renewable energy, paired with digitalisation are the way forward. “We must ensure that our businesses, including those situated in islands like Malta and Gozo, receive the necessary financial and technical support to effectively be at the forefront of the green and digital transition.” She continued by emphasising that European programmes, as well as exchanging best practices, are essential to ensure that new digital technologies and solutions are used and implemented to facilitate the various processes in the field of energy, such as production, dispatching, storage and cleaner energy.
MEP Cutajar concluded by stating that apart from financial incentives, it is imperative to provide businesses with the adequate support for the skilling and upskilling of the workforce, focusing on STEM-related fields and the opportunities offered by the digital and environmental transition, ensuring a socially just twin transition for all.