PRESS RELEASE BY THE MINISTRY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, ENERGY AND PUBLIC CLEANLINESS Malta advocates for affordable energy and stronger energy architecture

“Energy policy must serve people's needs" – Minister Miriam Dalli

Minister for the Environment, Energy and Public Cleanliness Miriam Dalli participated in the Transport, Telecommunications, and Energy (TTE) Council in Brussels, where she strongly pushed for affordable energy, stronger energy architecture, and an enhanced European energy system that works for everyone.

“The Maltese Government will continue to fight for fair energy prices, secure energy supplies, and a sustainable future that benefits everyone. Every household should be able to afford paying for energy, and every business should operate without the fear of soaring energy costs," said Minister Miriam Dalli during the council meeting.

As energy prices are once again increasing a key discussion at the meeting was the Action Plan for Affordable Energy, presented by the European Commission. The plan aims to reduce energy costs, strengthen the Energy Union, and prepare for future energy challenges.

Malta welcomed this initiative, as it aligns with Government's commitment over the years to shield households and businesses from energy price spikes.

Minister Miriam Dalli emphasised that the Commission's push for affordable energy measures across the EU is a positive step. “Malta has worked hard to keep energy prices stable, even in difficult times. This is a commitment that we gave to our people and that we will continue delivering on. If energy costs across Europe become more affordable, this will help us sustain our efforts," she stated.

Malta has long called for a genuine and complete Energy Union, ensuring that all Member States - including small and peripheral ones - are fully connected to Europe's energy grid. Minister Dalli urged the EU to provide stronger financial support for island nations like Malta, where energy infrastructure is costly.

“We cannot talk about a united energy market when some Member States, including Malta, remain disconnected from the EU's gas network. The EU must support investments in gas and electricity infrastructure, as well as new technologies like hydrogen-ready pipelines and floating offshore renewable energy," the minister emphasised.

Council also discussed Europe's energy security architecture. Minister Miriam Dalli highlighted the need for stronger cybersecurity measures and initiatives to protect critical energy infrastructure.

Discussions on these crucial energy issues will continue at the next EU energy meetings in June, where Malta will keep pushing for fair, affordable, and secure energy for all.