The government has finalised its policy framework for the installation and use of photovoltaic panels in industrial zones, with INDIS already identifying a number of sites and preparing to issue a call for expressions of interest.
Prime Minister Robert Abela announced the development during a pre-Budget 2027 consultation meeting with representatives of the Malta Developers Association (MDA), where he also outlined proposed changes to the planning appeals process and measures aimed at protecting third parties affected by construction.
The photovoltaic policy was approved by Cabinet earlier this month following an extensive consultation process with stakeholders, Abela said.
INDIS has already identified suitable sites where the initiative can begin and is preparing a call for expressions of interest to coincide with the formal launch of the policy.
The Prime Minister said the necessary legal and operational documents were currently being finalised to allow the process to begin immediately once the initiative is launched.
The announcement formed part of discussions with representatives of the development and construction sector on their priorities, challenges and proposals ahead of the 2027 Budget.
Abela also provided an update on the government's proposed reform of the planning appeals procedure, saying the reform was intended to give greater substance to the appeals process.
Under the proposed changes, any works connected to a development permit that is subject to an appeal before the Tribunal or the Court would be automatically suspended.
The reform would also introduce clear timeframes for the appeals process and a digital mechanism intended to improve the efficiency of the process.
"Following public consultation by the relevant Ministry, we are now at the stage of consolidating the final version prior to publication and the parliamentary process," Abela said.
Abela said the government had engaged in discussions on reforming the appeals process from the beginning of the legislature, with the aim of balancing the interests of those seeking to invest in development with protections for third parties.
He highlighted a fund introduced during the government's first 100 days in office to cover damages suffered by third parties.
Under the new mechanism, the previous requirement for a bank guarantee was replaced with a system through which the government assumes responsibility for recovering damages.
Abela also referred to other measures intended to strengthen public protection in relation to construction, including the 138 Helpline and free services provided by architects and lawyers.
The 138 Helpline allows members of the public to report abuses or concerns related to buildings and construction sites. Abela said the service was proving to be an important tool for people affected by such issues.
Turning to the wider economy, Abela said Malta was continuing to attract investment despite difficulties in other economies.
"There are various economies around us that are struggling and faltering, whereas Malta is maintaining a strong economy, with investment continuing at a robust pace, and the sector you represent is contributing to this," he said.
The Prime Minister also referred to assurances given by Finance Minister Clyde Caruana concerning the energy sector, saying subsidies would continue to be provided.
He said the continuation of energy subsidies would provide the stability and certainty required by the economy.
The meeting was part of the government's pre-Budget 2027 consultation process with different sectors and stakeholders.
Abela was accompanied by Ministers Owen Bonnici, Silvio Schembri, Miriam Dalli, Clyde Caruana, Jonathan Attard and Jo Etienne Abela, as well as Head of the Prime Minister's Secretariat Mark Mallia.