Malta finalises policy for photovoltaic panels in industrial zones as INDIS identifies sites

The Government has finalised a new policy framework governing the installation and use of photovoltaic panels in Malta’s industrial zones, Prime Minister Robert Abela has announced.

Speaking during a pre-Budget 2027 consultation meeting with representatives of the Malta Development Association (MDA), Dr Abela said the framework was finalised following an extensive consultation process with stakeholders and received Cabinet approval earlier this month.

INDIS Malta has also identified a number of sites considered suitable for the initiative and is preparing to issue a call for expressions of interest at the same time as the policy is formally launched.

According to the Prime Minister, work is currently under way to finalise the necessary legal and operational documentation, allowing the process to begin immediately once the initiative is launched.

During the meeting, Dr Abela also provided an update on the Government’s proposed reform of the planning appeals process. This reform would introduce an automatic suspension of works related to a development permit while that permit is under appeal before the Environment and Planning Review Tribunal or the courts.

The Government is also proposing defined timeframes for appeals and a digital mechanism intended to improve the efficiency of the process.

Following a public consultation by the responsible ministry, Dr Abela said the Government is now consolidating the final version of the reform ahead of its publication and subsequent parliamentary process.

The Prime Minister said the Government’s approach should facilitate investment in development and construction while strengthening protections for third parties affected by works.

He referred to the recently introduced fund covering damages suffered by third parties, under which the previous bank guarantee system was replaced by a mechanism whereby the Government assumes responsibility for recovering damages.

Dr Abela also highlighted other measures introduced to protect the public, including Helpline 138, through which construction-related concerns and alleged abuses can be reported, as well as access to architects and lawyers free of charge.