On Monday 19 February, the Water Services Corporation announced a wide range of EU-funded projects that will substantially increase the quality of tap water, reduce carbon emissions, increase efficiencies and safeguard Malta’s groundwater resources.
This announcement was made during a press conference addressed by Hon Joe, Mizzi, Minister for Energy and Water Management, and Hon Aaron Farrugia, Parliamentary Secretary for EU Funds and Social Dialogue.
The projects, which were presented by Mr Richard Bilocca CEO of the Water Services Corporation encompass:
- The boring of a 9.5km 3m wide underground tunnel to convey water from the reverse osmosis plant in Pembroke to the Ta’ Qali Reservoirs. This will allow the WSC to refine its water-blending and provide drinking water of a uniform quality across Malta. It will also increase energy efficiency by reducing pumping frictional losses.
- The upgrading of reverse osmosis plants to increase energy efficiency and production capacity. A new RO plant will also be commissioned at an already committed site at Hondoq Ir-Rummien Gozo which will produce up to 9,000 cubic metres per day and ensure self-sufficiency in water production for the island.
- The extension of the potable water supply network to remote areas near Siggiewi, Qrendi and Haz-Zebbug. This project will ensure that quality of water supplied to these consumers is improved and groundwater further protected. Upgrading of ground water galleries to prevent saline infiltration.
- The extension of the sewer network to remote areas currently not connected to the network. These areas are mostly in the North, North-West and South-East parts of Malta. Areas with performance issues will also be addressed and advanced discharge monitoring introduced to increase the general efficiency of the system.
- The extension of the New Water distribution network to reach more farmers.
These new projects will amount to an investment of over €100 million and will build upon and enhance the last EU-funded projects programme 2007-2013.
