New scheme to help enterprises identify ways to reduce their energy and water consumption

A new scheme aimed at helping enterprises identify practical ways to reduce their energy and water consumption, lower operating costs and improve competitiveness, has been launched.

The scheme, called the Energy Performance Assessment for Enterprises Scheme. forms part of Malta’s wider transition towards a climate-neutral economy and supports the ambitions of Malta Vision 2050, Minister for Energy, the Environment and the Regeneration of the Grand Harbour Miriam Dalli said during the launch.

“Energy Performance Assessments are one of the smartest investments a business can make. Through this scheme, we are providing enterprises with the practical support and expertise they need to better understand their energy use, reduce operating costs and become more competitive."

“By helping businesses improve their energy and water performance, we are strengthening Malta’s competitiveness while building a cleaner and more sustainable future,” Minister Dalli added.

The scheme offers two streams, tailored for enterprises with different levels of energy consumption.

The ministry explained that low energy consuming enterprises may benefit from a free Energy Performance Assessment, which includes on-site visits, tailored recommendations and expert guidance. This stream is intended for enterprises with an average annual energy consumption below 140,000 kWh over the previous three years, according to the scheme's webpage.

Meanwhile, medium energy consuming enterprises may receive financial assistance to carry out an assessment, helping them identify practical opportunities to reduce energy and water consumption. This stream is intended for enterprises with an average annual energy consumption between 140,000 kWh and 2.78 million kWh over the previous three years.

Chief Executive Officer of the Energy & Water Agency, Inġ. Sandro Lauri, said the scheme reflects the Agency’s commitment to helping enterprises make informed decisions on energy and water efficiency.

“By providing tailored assessments and expert guidance, we are enabling businesses to move from identifying opportunities to implementing meaningful improvements. This will help them reduce consumption, improve operational efficiency and strengthen their long-term resilience,” Inġ. Lauri said.

The launch brought together representatives from government, industry, academia and the energy auditing community.

The Energy Performance Assessment for Enterprises Scheme is open to enterprises registered with the Malta Business Registry and self-employed individuals with a valid VAT number. Applications are now open.

Further information, including eligibility criteria and application details, is available on the Energy & Water Agency’s website.

Main image by DOI/Stephen Busuttil