AIS Environment specialises in renewable energy consultancy that promote sustainable development and reduce environmental impact in Malta. By providing expert assessments and innovative strategies, the team helps clients harness clean energy sources, contributing to a greener future and supporting the transition towards a low-carbon economy.
Renewable Energy in Malta
In response to the increasing importance and urgency of climate change, many countries and regions are investing in renewable energy to reduce their national greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate their contribution to climate change. Malta, like many other countries, has recognised the need to transition to renewable energy sources to reduce its carbon footprint.
Malta has a very specific challenge in its transition to renewables. With limited availability of undeveloped land, the scope for large-scale onshore solar or wind farms is somewhat limited.
The government is shifting its focus to offshore wind and solar farms. With an Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) spanning over 71,446 square kilometres – i.e. 226 times the size of Malta’s land area – offshore renewable energy development has huge potential in Malta.
With our extensive knowledge and experience both in marine projects and renewable energy projects, we are the ideal environmental consultants to partner with for renewable energy proposals.
Read about Malta's most feasible renewable energy technologies
Renewable Energy Technology
Offshore Wind
There are two types of offshore wind farms: fixed bottom and floating bottom. Fixed bottom wind turbines require a maximum depth of 50 meters. Floating bottom wind turbines, anchored to the seabed, can be installed at a maximum depth of about 800 meters.
Offshore Solar
Offshore solar farms are typically located on floating platforms in the sea, anchored to the bottom. Solar panels take advantage of Malta’s ample Mediterranean sunlight. Floating offshore solar farms can be anchored in depths of up to about 800 metres.
Onshore Solar
Onshore solar farms are large-scale solar facilities which are developed on greenfield or brownfield sites, readily connecting to onshore electrical infrastructure. However, in Malta, land is scarce, and identifying suitable locations requires detailed environmental studies.
Renewable Energy
Aim to ensure sustainable development, minimizs ecological impacts, and enable Malta to achieve its renewable energy targets while preserving its unique natural resources and biodiversity
Site Selection
In close collaboration with the client, we identify suitable locations for renewables which satisfies both technical requirements and environmental considerations. For onshore projects, we consider factors such as land use, topography, access to infrastructure and ecology. For offshore projects, we study seabed conditions, marine traffic and marine life.
Design Consultancy
With a large network of marine experts, engineers, architects and other specialists, we are the ideal partner to support the development of renewables. AIS will appoint qualified experts to ensure high quality consultancy.
We offer feasible design suggestions that ensure projects are in line with legal obligations and promote sustainable development.
Project Description
AIS prepares PDS documents which describe the project and the envisaged environmental impacts on noise, air quality, ecology, etc..
AIS will directly liaise with the client, architects and ERA to ensure a high quality report that satisfies all regulatory requirements.
Environmental Impact Assessments
Our EIAs help clients understand the potential environmental effects of their renewable energy projects. We work closely with clients, engineers and architects to identify the best project design with the lowest environmental impact.
AIS will coordinate consultations with ERA, stakeholders and the public, handling any environmental questions on behalf of the client.
Mitigation Measures
We identify mitigation measures designed to maximise energy production while at the same time minimising the environmental impacts of renewable energy projects.
We work side-by-side with engineers and architects to identify measures which are effective and feasible to implement in the local context.
Our Methodology
AIS Environment is committed to helping clients achieve their renewable energy goals in a sustainable and responsible manner. Our site selection exercises, environmental impact assessments, and mitigation measures are key components of our comprehensive approach to environmental consulting in the renewable energy sector. As Malta transitions to renewable energy sources, our broad area of expertise ensures that this transition is sustainable and beneficial to both the environment and the economy.
Contact us today to find out more!
