The government of Malta has launched a tender to develop the country’s first offshore wind farm some 22 km off its coast.
The offshore wind farm will use floating technology and have a capacity somewhere between 280 and 320MW. The project will also be awarded a contract for difference by Malta’s ministry for the environment, energy, and public cleanliness.
The tender procedure began with the issuance of a pre-qualification questionnaire. It reveals the details of the project and allows developers to demonstrate their technical and financial capabilities.
After this, the Maltese government will then shortlist five top candidates. In the subsequent stages, the shortlisted candidates will submit their initial proposals after which they will submit a final offer.
“This project is not only crucial for energy generation but will also have a positive environmental impact. It addresses Malta’s space limitations in a sustainable manner. Unlike other proposals discussed in the past, this project has been meticulously planned,” said Miriam Dalli, Malta’s minister for energy.
Malta’s prime minister Robert Abela explained that the project emphasizes the government’s belief in the private sector as a strategic partner in helping Malta achieve its goals, including becoming carbon neutral by 2050.
“Malta is taking the lead in achieving this goal, having united Mediterranean countries to establish this principle,” Dalli added.
