Energy schemes should last a generation, not a year - Labour leader

During a visit to the Solar Systems factory, Opposition leader Joseph Muscat said that Malta needs to look beyond 2020 alternative energy targets.

“The Labour Party will continue to develop the government’s currently launched alternative energy schemes which are positive but Malta still does not have any energy policies with any real clear targets,” Muscat said.

Referring to ‘feed-in’ tariffs, Muscat appealed for a solution to be found whilst acknowledging the challenge to find a balance between government finances and economic growth but added that no deficit reduction can succeed without economic growth.

“Through acceptable feed-in tariff levels, private sectors will be given incentives to invest and create more green jobs. This is not a year-long project. It is a generational project which will go beyond 2020 targets,” Muscat said.

The Solar Solutions project created 42 green jobs to date, with further plans to expand and create more jobs abroad, including Romania and Israel.

Managing director of Bajada New Energy Ltd Mark Bajada said that the company invested €250,000 for research and innovation which resulted in factory electricity being generated by photovoltaic panels.

“I appeal to other companies to do the same and invest in research and innovation,” Bajada said.