Electricity in Malta in 2024
Currently, Malta's electricity consumption is heavily dominated by fossil energy, with more than half of its electricity, approximately 58%, generated from fossil fuels. Gas is the primary contributor, representing nearly all of the fossil energy used. In addition, Malta relies significantly on net imports, accounting for almost a third of its energy supply. On the cleaner side, low-carbon sources contribute close to 12% of the total electricity generation, with solar energy being nearly the sole contributor in this category, providing around 11% of Malta's electricity. This distribution underscores an urgent need for Malta to diversify its energy sources to embrace more low-carbon options, reducing its reliance on fossil fuels that contribute to climate change and air pollution.
Is Electricity Growing in Malta?
Electricity consumption in Malta is on the rise, reflecting an encouraging trajectory towards growth. The latest data for 2024 indicates electricity consumption at 5850 kWh per person, surpassing the previous record set in 2023 by a noteworthy increase of 277 kWh per person. This growth is not only seen in overall consumption but also in the clean energy sector. Low-carbon electricity generation reached 683 kWh per person in 2024, outpacing the 2023 numbers by 82 kWh per person, which signifies a positive step toward sustainable energy generation. This growth trajectory highlights both a vibrant demand for electricity and a silver lining in the push for cleaner energy sources.
Suggestions
To further increase low-carbon electricity generation, Malta should focus on expanding its solar capabilities, considering its strong existing base in this field. Learning from other regions, Malta can take inspiration from Lebanon and Greece, which have successfully integrated solar into their energy mix, achieving significant contributions of 31% and 21%, respectively. Furthermore, while solar is a natural fit given Malta's climate, considering nuclear energy could offer a consistent and reliable source of clean energy. Countries like France and Slovakia have achieved substantial low-carbon energy production with nuclear as a primary source, achieving 68% and 62% of their electricity generation from this clean source. Malta can employ these strategies to bolster its clean energy portfolio and reduce its dependency on fossil fuels.
History
Malta's history of low-carbon electricity generation, particularly through solar power, reveals a clear pattern of stagnation until recent years. From 2010 to 2024, solar electricity generation remained constant without any additional input, highlighting a period of missed opportunities for growth and innovation in the last decades. The lack of significant progress in sustainable electricity generation during this period is concerning, and underscores the need for immediate action to avoid similar situations in the future. The country must prioritize reinforcing its solar energy infrastructure and explore nuclear energy solutions to accelerate growth in clean electricity generation and ensure a sustainable energy future.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.