The Republic of Malta adopted its first National Energy and Climate Plan (NECP) pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2018/1999 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the Governance of the Energy Union and Climate Action.
Malta’s NECP covers the Energy Union’s five dimensions: decarbonisation, energy efficiency, energy security, internal energy market, and research, innovation and competitiveness.
The NECP addresses cultural heritage in several ways. A key principle of the strategy is “Energy Efficiency first” in energy planning and investments. However, the plan provides for an assessment of other relevant factors, i.e. national security and heritage projects. In fact, in projects related to national heritage, energy efficiency ought to be reached based on constrained parameters.
In order to encourage promotion and restoration of national heritage, one policy provides for the “Irrestawara Darek”, a grant aimed at reimbursing 100% of eligible restoration works, including, specialist cleaning of the façade, repair/replacement of doors, apertures or traditional timber/masonry/wrought iron balconies and the replacement of aluminium/pvc with traditional materials. The grant is reserved for privately owned residential buildings within urban conservation areas.
Concerning environmental impact, the Plan provides for a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA), whereby impact on cultural heritage is included in order to assess potential negative impacts of energy policies on cultural heritage.
Overall, the 2030 NECP reconciles the respect of the Paris Agreement commitments and the objectives established by EU Regulation 2018/1999 with protection and preservation of cultural heritage.
Menu
