What is Malta's energy storage system?

Q: Malta’s solution lies in thermo-electric energy storage. Why is this system so innovative, and what are its main keys? A: It combines well-established thermodynamic principles with modern technological advancements to create a cost-effective, scalable, and efficient energy storage solution.

How efficient is Malta's thermal storage system?

Malta’s system also achieves a power-to-power charge/discharge round-trip efficiency (RTE) of up to 60%, which is about 50% higher than other thermal storage systems without heat pump charging.

How long can a Malta storage unit be charged and discharged?

A: A Malta storage unit can be charged and discharged 100% in unlimited cycles without degradation of the storage media. As the main storage medium, Malta has selected a natural thermo-solar salt sourced by solar evaporation (e.g., in the Atacama Desert of Chile).

How does the Bess project affect PV generation in Malta?

The BESS project is also intended to mitigate weather-related challenges posed by renewable energy sources, which are reliant on climatic conditions and can therefore lead to significant dips in generation during moments of sudden cloud coverage severely affecting the PV generation in Malta.

What is Malta's Energy & Climate Strategy?

This project is in alignment with Malta’s energy and climate strategies, as it emphasises the integration of energy emanating from renewable sources and the mitigation of energy curtailment, thus enhancing energy security and reducing carbon emissions.

What if Malta is isolated from the Italian Grid?

Provide fast frequency and voltage stabilisation to the Maltese grid in case Malta is isolated from the Italian grid because of maintenance or faults. ERA reviews the Project Description Statement and confirms that an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is not required