Geological tests on gas pipeline underway in Delimara

Geological tests and core sampling work were currently underway in Delimara to determine the best route for the gas pipeline between Malta and Italy, according to Minister without portfolio Konrad Mizzi.

In a statement issued Tuesday, the minister within the Office of the Prime Minister said that the process was part of the second detailed study – co-financed by the European Union – on the seabed route, basic design and the documentation necessary for the submission of environmental permits required for the pipeline in Malta and Italy.

“Nothing had ever been done before now on the gas pipeline project,” he said. “To ensure our country is no longer dependant on oil and to do away with the use of heavy fuel oil in the generation of electricity, a gas floating storage unit will be used temporarily until the gas pipeline between Malta and Gela is completed.”

Mizzi said the government was committed to the pipeline being completed in the shortest timeframe possible in a bid to continue offering peace of mind with regards to energy supply to Maltese families and businesses.

The gas pipeline was declared by the EU to be a ‘common interest project’ –essential for both the EU and Malta – and had provided funds for the project.

A 2015 study had concluded that the pipeline join the Italy network in Gela and that 155km of 22-inch pipe would be needed to be laid.