Malta’s Roof-Less Families Finally See the Light

Imagine living in the sunniest Mediterranean country, yet your home remains in the shade. This is the reality for many Maltese families living in apartments without roof access. But change is on the horizon, thanks to a novel solar panel scheme.

Tucked away in the heart of Birkirkara, the bustling streets echo with the humdrum of daily life. Among the terraced houses and apartment blocks, some families gaze longingly at the sun-drenched rooftops, wishing they could harness the island’s abundant sunlight. Until now, they’ve been left in the dark, quite literally.

The Malta Renewable Energy Agency (MREA) has launched a pioneering scheme, ‘Solar for All’, aiming to provide solar power to households without roof access. The project, funded by the EU’s Cohesion Fund, is set to transform Malta’s energy scene, one apartment block at a time.

“We’re leveling the playing field,” explains Dr. Rachel Tabone, MREA’s project coordinator. “Solar power shouldn’t be a privilege reserved for those with rooftops. It’s a right for all Maltese residents.”

The scheme will install solar panels on communal rooftops or facades, generating electricity for the entire building. Each apartment will receive a share of the generated power, based on its size. The project also includes energy efficiency measures, such as LED lighting and smart meters, to maximize savings.

Participating buildings will see their electricity bills slashed by up to 40%, according to MREA estimates. the scheme will help Malta meet its EU renewable energy targets, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing energy security.

“We’re not just installing solar panels,” Dr. Tabone adds. “We’re empowering communities, fostering a sense of collective ownership, and driving a sustainable future together.”

The first phase of the project is underway, with several apartment blocks in Birkirkara, Ħamrun, and Msida set to benefit. The scheme is open to all apartment blocks, regardless of ownership structure, with MREA providing technical assistance and co-funding up to 80% of project costs.

For families like the Abelas, who’ve lived in a third-floor apartment in Birkirkara for decades, the news is a beacon of hope. “We’ve always wanted to go solar,” says Mr. Abel, “but we never had the chance. Now, it’s finally happening.”

As the sun sets over the Maltese islands, casting a warm glow over the rooftops, the promise of a brighter, greener future shines ever clearer. The ‘Solar for All’ scheme is more than just a solar panel installation; it’s a testament to Malta’s commitment to sustainability and a symbol of hope for families once left in the shade.