A Pre-Market Consultation has been published by the Climate Action Authority to assess interest from the private sector in participating in the implementation of a new electric vehicle charging infrastructure.

The objective of this project being coordinated in consolidation with Enemalta is to utilise strategically selected existing utility poles as charging points for electric vehicles and to integrate them into the current electricity infrastructure. The CAA intends to initiate the implementation of this project with pilot projects and is consulting with several local councils to participate. The implementation process will also be guided by technical feasibility studies to identify suitable pole locations based on safety, accessibility, and network capacity criteria. The PMC is intended to assess interest from the private sector in participating in the project’s implementation. The technical details are published on the CAA and Department of Contracts websites (PMC No. PMC/01/26)

This PMC supports the CAA’s initiatives to promote Malta’s shift to sustainable, clean mobility. This will involve expanding accessible single-phase slow AC electric vehicle recharging stations that provide electricity at a controlled rate, making them especially suitable for locations where vehicles are parked for extended periods. The plan is to install these chargers, known as trickle chargers, on existing utility poles in residential public areas and other key locations where vehicles are often parked for long durations.

The utilisation of Malta’s existing electrical infrastructure means that the requisite cabling is already installed within the utility poles, thereby eliminating the necessity for supplementary civil works, trenching, or new grid connections. This facilitates a more rapid and cost-effective deployment of publicly accessible charging infrastructure while simultaneously minimising disruptions, visual impact, and environmental effects.

Commenting on the launch of this PMC, Climate Action Authority CEO, Ing Abigail Cutajar, said that: “This initiative seeks to boost electric mobility by enhancing access to charging stations in communities and common areas. It re-affirms the commitment in Malta’s ongoing efforts to electrify transportation and aligns with CAA’s goal to optimise existing resources while encouraging projects that unite the private sector, public entities, and the community.”