Malta Employers calls for long-term infrastructure strategy after power outages

Malta Employers has renewed its call for a coordinated, long-term approach to infrastructure planning, arguing that the recent electricity outages should be seen as part of broader structural challenges rather than as isolated incidents.

The Association said its concerns predate the recent disruptions and form part of a wider discussion on ensuring Malta's infrastructure keeps pace with economic growth, population increases and the country's future ambitions.

The issue was raised during two separate meetings: one held within the MCESD framework with the relevant Ministers and senior Enemalta officials, and another with representatives of the Opposition and other MCESD members.

During the discussions, Malta Employers acknowledged Enemalta's efforts in managing the emergency situations, saying the corporation had responded relatively well to the immediate challenges. However, it argued that the outages underscored the need for stronger long-term planning and sustained investment.

Malta Employers President Ivan Refalo said electricity was a vital component of Malta's competitiveness but warned that the challenge extends well beyond energy supply.

"Recent events have shown the importance of ensuring that our infrastructure is capable of supporting Malta's continued growth. Electricity is one important element, but similar pressures are being experienced across other areas, including our roads, healthcare services, public transport and drainage systems. Rather than reacting to individual challenges as they arise, Malta needs a coordinated and forward-looking approach that ensures infrastructure investment is aligned with the country's long-term ambitions, including those outlined in Malta Vision 2050," he said.

The Association said the pace of development, construction activity and population growth had placed increasing pressure on national resources and infrastructure. It recommended establishing an inter-ministerial body to coordinate infrastructure planning and long-term investment across government, ensuring a more strategic and joined-up approach.

It also proposed a number of short-term measures to reduce the impact of electricity disruptions, including a public campaign promoting responsible electricity use, ensuring energy subsidies do not encourage wasteful consumption, improving customer care and communication during outages, and strengthening the role of the Regulator for Energy and Water Services (REWS).

Director General Kevin J. Borg said businesses need confidence that Malta has the capacity and infrastructure to support investment, innovation and growth.

"Competitiveness is built both on sound economic policy and on the reliability and resilience of the systems that underpin our growth. This is about creating the right foundations for sustainable growth and maintaining Malta's attractiveness as a place to live, work and invest," he said.

Malta Employers reiterated its commitment to working constructively with the Government, the Opposition and all social partners to help develop solutions that strengthen national infrastructure and support the country's long-term economic and social objectives.