PRESS RELEASE BY THE PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARIAT FOR YOUTH, RESEARCH, AND INNOVATION Investment in four local energy research projects

The Parliamentary Secretariat for Youth, Research, and Innovation today organised the fifth in a series of thematic events on Research and Innovation in collaboration with Xjenza Malta. At this event, a total investment of nearly €890,000 was announced for four innovative projects focusing on the energy sector. This follows previous thematic events held on fields such as health, digital technology, and nutrition.

During his speech, Parliamentary Secretary Keith Azzopardi Tanti emphasized that the projects presented today - AIRSAVE, VACUUM, HyMiCHP, and ECO-Composite - are a testament to how local research is proactively addressing global challenges. This effort aligns with the Malta Vision 2050, with the objective that quality of life remains the primary priority in a country that serves as a centre of excellence. "By investing in these energy technologies today, we are continuing to strengthen national energy security," the Parliamentary Secretary maintained.

He added that the Government's role is to continue sustaining this ecosystem by investing in Maltese talent through Xjenza Malta. This investment in human resources allows local researchers to collaborate on an international level - as seen through the SINO-Malta fund - to improve sustainability worldwide.

The event included the presentation of these innovative projects that are making a real difference:

• AIRSAVE: A project in collaboration with AIMS Enterprises that uses Artificial Intelligence to reduce industrial energy consumption and CO2 emissions.
• VACUUM: An initiative together with Toly Products that introduced a seal-less vacuum mold system to improve production and reduce operational costs.
• HyMiCHP: A project in collaboration with Abertax that developed a microCHP system to provide affordable and efficient energy to families.
• ECO-Composite: A collaboration between the University of Malta and Zhejiang Sci-Tech University that is replacing traditional plastic with sustainable materials made from natural fibres.

Regarding the AIRSAVE project, Prof. Paul Refalo from the University of Malta explained how this initiative is making an impact. “Through the AIRSAVE project, we are being able to transform theoretical ideas into practical solutions that, through the use of Artificial Intelligence, directly affect industrial efficiency. Our goal is to significantly reduce energy wastage and emissions while maintaining competitiveness in our local market."

Professor Ing. Duncan Camilleri from the University of Malta emphasized the international synergy in the ECO-Composite project: “The collaboration between the University of Malta and Zhejiang Sci-Tech University on the ECO-Composite project is the soul of innovation. This investment allows us to push the boundaries of engineering to change traditional plastic into sustainable materials made from natural fibres, thereby creating systems designed for the environmental needs of tomorrow."

Through these solutions, Malta is positioning itself at the forefront of scientific excellence. Sustainability and profitability are moving hand in hand for a more secure future for our children.