The Maltese Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable economic growth by signing the first-ever Power Purchase Agreement in the Mediterranean cruise region with Carnival UK & P&O Cruises, representing all Carnival Corporation brands. This agreement marks a significant milestone in Malta’s ambition to lead in sustainable maritime practices and environmental responsibility.
Prime Minister Robert Abela, speaking at the press conference, highlighted the transformative potential of this initiative, known as the Shore Power Initiative. “Today, we are demonstrating how we can integrate sustainability into our economic model, driven by innovation, efficiency, and a commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Prime Minister Abela.
Revolutionizing Malta’s Maritime Infrastructure
As part of the Shore-to-Ship initiative, Malta will introduce fully electrified cruise berths, enabling Carnival Corp’s cruise ships to connect to the shore power grid while docked. This will significantly reduce their carbon footprint by allowing them to draw power from the grid rather than relying on their onboard engines while in port.
The agreement, signed with Transport Malta, positions Malta as a leader in sustainable tourism and green maritime practices in the Mediterranean. It aligns with the European Union’s regulations but goes beyond compliance, showcasing Malta’s leadership in integrating sustainability with economic progress.
Economic Impact and Global Leadership
Prime Minister Abela emphasized the economic benefits of the cruise industry, noting that cruise liners contribute approximately €88 million annually to Malta’s economy, with nearly €40 million directly generated from passengers. He underscored that this agreement is not only about environmental stewardship but also about maintaining Malta’s competitive edge on the global stage.
“This initiative reflects our vision of Malta becoming a hub for green innovation, integrating renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, into the maritime sector,” said Abela. He further added, “By harnessing the power of the sun and the sea, we are reducing emissions while positioning Malta as a beacon of green progress in the Mediterranean.”
Positioning Malta for Long-Term Success
Prime Minister Abela also highlighted the long-term benefits of this sustainable initiative. By adopting green technologies and practices, Malta is not only contributing to global environmental goals but also creating quality jobs, attracting investment, and ensuring the long-term prosperity of its economy.
This strategic partnership serves as a tangible example of Malta’s Vision 2050, which emphasizes sustainable development, innovation, and competitiveness in a rapidly evolving global market.
A Strong Commitment from Carnival Corporation
Carnival UK & P&O Cruises, acting on behalf of Carnival Corporation & Plc, which operates well-known cruise brands like P&O Cruises, Cunard, AIDA, Costa, Holland America, Seabourn, and Princess Cruises, all regular callers to Malta, have committed to the initiative. This collaboration will not only reduce the carbon footprint of cruise ships but also reinforce Malta’s position as a leader in green maritime practices in the Mediterranean.
