Malta’s Power Play: PN Slams Expensive Gas Deal
Power Play: PN Slams ‘Expensive’ Gas Deal for Delimara Plant
Imagine this: You’re a taxpayer in Malta, and you’ve just found out that you’re about to foot the bill for an expensive gas deal that’s set to power the Delimara power station. That’s right, folks. The Nationalist Party (PN) has raised concerns about a new agreement that could see us paying the market price for gas, instead of the discounted rate we’ve been enjoying. So, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of this potential power play.
From Discounts to Market Rates: What’s Changed?
Up until now, Enemalta, the state-owned power utility, has been benefiting from a discounted gas price thanks to a long-term contract with the Axiom Gas Marketing Limited. This contract, signed in 2015, was set to expire in 2023. However, the Labour Party (PL) government has decided to terminate the contract early, opting instead for a new agreement that ties in with the European gas market.
According to the PN, this new deal could see us paying up to €10 million more per year. That’s right, folks. We’re talking about a significant increase in our energy bills, all thanks to this new agreement. But why the sudden change of heart?
PN Sounds the Alarm on ‘Expensive’ Gas Deal
The PN has been quick to criticize this move, arguing that the government is putting profit before the interests of Maltese consumers. In a statement, the PN said, “The government is choosing to pay the market price for gas, which is currently at its highest level in history, instead of honouring the existing contract.”
But the PL has hit back, insisting that the new agreement will provide more flexibility and security of supply. In a statement, the Ministry for Energy and Water Management said, “The new agreement will allow Malta to benefit from the diversity of gas sources and the increased competition in the European gas market.”
So, what does this mean for you, the taxpayer? Well, it’s still early days, but it looks like we could be in for a bumpy ride. With energy prices already soaring across Europe, there’s a very real possibility that our bills could skyrocket. But don’t worry, we’ll be keeping a close eye on this story as it develops.
