THE MINISTRY FOR INCLUSION, VOLUNTARY ORGANISATIONS AND CONSUMER RIGHTS AND THE MINISTRY FOR THE ENVIRONMENT, ENERGY AND ENTERPRISE

Launch of the third call of the scheme supporting voluntary organisations to invest in energy and water efficiency

Energy and Water Agency allocates €2.5 million in five calls

The Energy and Water Agency (EWA) launched the third call of the €2.5 million scheme to support voluntary organisations reduce energy and water consumption and become more sustainable.

As of the first week of May, voluntary organisations can once again apply for this scheme in collaboration with the Malta Council for the Voluntary Sector. Through this third call, organisations can receive up to 90% of the total cost of projects to become more efficient in their energy and water use, up to €27,000.

During the launch of the scheme, Minister for the Environment, Energy and Enterprise Miriam Dalli and Minister for Inclusion, Voluntary and Consumer Rights Julia Farrugia Portelli explained that voluntary organisations, such as sports clubs, social clubs, and environmental organisations, among others, can apply for this scheme to invest in efficient systems and practices such as renewable energy systems, the installation of efficient lighting, or the restoration of reservoirs, among others.

Through previous calls, the government has already assisted around 30 voluntary organisations, including sports, social, and environmental organisations.

Minister Miriam Dalli stated, “We want our country to be more sustainable, in all aspects of our lives. Making Malta more sustainable and achieving carbon neutrality is a mission that we must all work for. Therefore, it is important for the government to continue assisting voluntary organisations to be more sustainable in the important services they provide in our communities.”

Minister Julia Farrugia Portelli highlighted the crucial role of promoting a sustainable voluntary sector. Farrugia Portelli emphasized that “the projects and initiatives supported by the scheme aim to reinforce three fundamental pillars, namely social, environmental, and economic. The objective is to make a significant impact on the lives of current beneficiaries while also ensuring that future generations benefit from these efforts.”

Farrugia Portelli stressed that voluntary organisations play an outstanding role as leaders and advocates in promoting a sustainable society.

Ing. Charles Buttigieg, Chief Officer Stakeholder Support of EWA and Malta Councils for Voluntary Sector (MCVS) CEO Mauro Pace Parascandalo, stated that online information sessions will be held for organisations to explain the benefits of this scheme.

Further information about the scheme and application process can be found on EWA’s website, energyanwateragency.gov.mt, and MCVS’s website, vofunding.org.mt.

Source: Office of the Prime Minister