Joint Statement by Enemalta, Infrastructure Malta, and Transport Malta 60 kilometers of new underground cables

19.12.2024

Works have started to add 60 kilometers of new underground cables, through collaboration between Enemalta, Infrastructure Malta, and Transport Malta.

These new medium-voltage cables will further strengthen the distribution system in 21 different localities in Malta and Gozo.

During a meeting with journalists, the entities explained the ongoing works to continue strengthening the distribution system, as was done throughout the past year.

“In the past year, Enemalta continued to work on strengthening the electricity distribution system at various levels. In the first five months of the year, in collaboration with Infrastructure Malta and Transport Malta, we managed to lay more than 82 kilometers of new underground cables,” said Enemalta Executive Chairman, Ing. Ryan Fava.

Together with the continuation of the six-year reinforcement plan for the distribution system, these connections will continue to enhance the resilience and flexibility of the network, providing Enemalta with more alternative connections to help restore supply in the shortest time possible in case that any interruptions arise.

This year, Enemalta commissioned 54 new substations and upgraded 76 other substations. This reinforcement exceeded the targets Enemalta set for the year, where the plan was to commission 45 new substations.

So far, 166 new low-voltage feeders have been connected to the network in various locations. Additionally, 47 kilometers of 400V/230V aerial lines along our roads have been replaced to further modernize the distribution network. These provide more alternative connections and increase the resilience of the network in case of supply interruptions.

In the coming year, Enemalta will begin work on two new distribution centers, one in Naxxar and the other in Siġġiewi. Work will also start on expanding distribution centres in Pembroke and Msida

Enemalta is also carrying out preparatory work for the second interconnector between Malta and Sicily. Work will begin to increase the 132-kilovolt link between the terminal station in Magħtab and the distribution centre in Mosta, as well as the extension of switchgear at one of the distribution centres in Marsa, in preparation for a battery storage facility to be commissioned by Interconnect Malta.

“We will continue working to strengthen the distribution system in the coming months, just as we did in the past few months, and prepare the electricity distribution network for the future. We will do this by laying 60 kilometers of new underground cables in various locations. Through these new cables, we are increasing the resilience and flexibility of our network, ensuring that supply can be restored in the shortest possible time if any damage occurs. While I thank all the workers involved in these projects, I also thank the residents of these areas for their cooperation during this period,” Ing. Ryan Fava continued.

“Infrastructure Malta is implementing these projects while emphasising the synergy between all the entities involved. This is to ensure effective coordination for this work plan. For us it is very important that, like any initiative of this scale, the work is done with as little inconvenience as possible for the residents and surrounding businesses. Therefore, more than ever, we will stay close to the community and listen to what needs to be done to continue working in the best possible way,” Infrastructure Malta CEO Mr. Steve Ellul said.

Transport Malta CEO Mr. Kurt Farrugia stated, “The successful collaboration between Enemalta, Infrastructure Malta, and Transport Malta during last year’s works clearly demonstrates what can be achieved when we unite for the benefit of our communities. The Authority will continue working closely with localities to ensure residents’ needs remain a top priority, while guaranteeing road safety and effective traffic management during the upcoming works.”

These works will take place in the following locations: Ħ’Attard, Birkirkara, Birżebbuġia, Buġibba, Qawra, Fgura, Ħal Għaxaq, Ġżira, Ħamrun, Imsida, Mellieħa, San Ġwann, TasSliema, San Ġiljan, Ta’ Xbiex, Ħal Tarxien, Ħaż-Żebbuġ, Żejtun, and Marsaxlokk, as well as Victoria, Kerċem and Għarb in Gozo.