Addressing a conference entitled Renewable and Efficient Energy: The Cost Savings at Home, Minister Zammit spoke of the new bill of law that he believes will promote energy efficiency in Maltese buildings by helping to maintain more consistent, comfortable internal temperatures.

To guarantee more comfort in the hot summer months, and promote energy efficiency, the new regulations state that all ceilings in buildings and all exterior walls must be adequately insulated. Any large windows must also be double or triple glazed in an effort to keep the interior temperature consistent.

The conference was organised by the Buildings Industry Consultative Council (BICC) in an effort to promote a more energy-efficient mentality. Contemporary society’s higher standard of living comes at the expense of high energy consumption, said Mr Zammit, since energy, that usually depends on natural resources, is needed for practically everything.

Mr Zammit explained that the introduction of new technology and building materials, like concrete, has led modern architects away from more traditional concepts of architecture that were more adapted to the Maltese climate. He said features such as a central courtyard, small windows and thick walls all helped shield the interior of old Maltese buildings from both the heat and the cold.

BICC chairman Robert Musumeci made note of a document introduced by the council that promoted energy efficiency. The publication gives architects specific guidelines regarding the points they must consider to design an energy-efficient building.

The document also includes a guide to determine whether a building is truly energy efficient, said Mr Musumeci. He concluded by saying that the BICC will continue to provide the building industry with its support and help generate more awareness of energy efficiency in this

sector.