Malta explores importing renewable energy from North Africa

Interconnect Malta (ICM) has launched a Preliminary Market Consultation (PMC) to explore the feasibility of importing renewable energy from North Africa as part of Malta’s future energy mix.

The consultation invites project developers to propose solutions for generating green electricity in North Africa and transmitting it to Malta. The exercise is intended to gather technical and financial data, including indicative costs, before any formal procurement process is launched.

The project is targeting the importation of approximately 0.8 terawatt-hours (TWh) of renewable energy annually, equivalent to around 25 per cent of Malta’s projected electricity demand in 2025.

A key feature of the initiative is its focus on providing a stable, continuous supply of renewable energy. Unlike traditional intermittent sources such as solar and wind, the project is designed to deliver a “baseload” level of clean electricity, reducing variability in supply.

The government is also exploring a long-term pricing mechanism to support the project. This would take the form of a 25-year Contract for Difference (CfD), aimed at offering price stability while shielding households and businesses from fluctuations in global fossil fuel markets.

Environment and Energy Minister Miriam Dalli said the consultation forms part of a broader effort to assess viable options before taking policy decisions. She noted that Malta is evaluating different energy pathways to strengthen long-term resilience and align with the country’s wider strategy under Malta Vision 2050.

The initiative also complements other ongoing energy projects, including the second electricity interconnector and offshore renewable developments, which are at various stages of implementation.

ICM Chief Executive Officer Ing. Ismail D’Amato stated that the consultation aims to engage market participants early in the process, with a view to assessing both technical feasibility and commercial viability.

The Preliminary Market Consultation will remain open until 22 May.