Among our services, we offer critical solutions in the renewable energy sector. Our expertise and focus on environmental management and impact assessment ensure that we provide holistic services to clients who are seeking to develop renewable energy infrastructure.
One of the most pressing global challenges is climate change. 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. As a result, 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.
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.
Where do AIS Come in?
AIS Environment is a leading provider of environmental consulting services in the renewable energy sector. We offer a range of services related to onshore and offshore solar farms, as well as offshore wind farms. Our services are designed to help clients design their renewable energy projects, as well as identify and mitigate environmental risks associated with these endeavours.
Some of our services are:
Site Selection Exercises: One of the first steps in proposing renewable energy projects is to identify a suitable location for such developments which satisfies both technical and feasibility requirements, as well as environmental considerations. That is where our site selection exercises (SSEs) come in. For onshore solar farms, we consider factors such as land use, topography, access to infrastructure, terrestrial ecology and protected habitats/species. For offshore solar farms and wind farms, we evaluate seabed conditions, marine life, protected sites and proximity to shore. Our goal is to identify sites that maximise energy production while minimising environmental impacts. Our SSEs also consider all ancillary infrastructure, such as offshore cables, as well as any onshore supporting infrastructure.
Environmental Impact Assessments: Our environmental impact assessments (EIAs) help clients understand the potential environmental effects of their renewable energy projects. For onshore solar farms, we evaluate impacts on wildlife, vegetation, and soil quality. For offshore solar farms and offshore wind farms, we assess impacts on marine ecosystems, including fish, mammals, reptiles, and seabirds. We also take into account the protection of critical marine habitats and species. For instance, the Mediterranean sea is home to important benthic habitats such as Posidonia oceanica, maerl beds, and coralligenous reefs, which support a rich diversity of marine species. We work closely with engineers and architects to identify the best project design with the lowest environmental impact.
Mitigation Measures: We also identify mitigation measures designed to maximise energy production while simultaneously 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.
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.
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