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Maltese Government Plans to Release Pre-Qualification Questionnaire for Floating Wind Developers

Malta to publish a pre-qualification questionnaire for floating wind projects, advancing its renewable energy plans.
Maltese Government to Issue Pre-Qualification Questionnaire for Floating Wind Developers

The Maltese government is set to release a pre-qualification questionnaire for parties interested in developing floating wind projects.

This information follows a consultation document issued in September, ahead of the country’s Budget 2025 announcement on 28 October.

Initially, the government identified six potential areas for floating wind development, later narrowing it down to two areas for tender. Offshore surveys began in these regions over the summer.

According to the pre-budget consultation document, the Maltese Ministry for Finance stated that preparations are being finalized to issue a pre-qualification questionnaire to attract renewable energy suppliers through floating wind turbine technology.

Besides floating wind farms, Malta is exploring nearshore solar energy projects, having launched a preliminary market consultation at the start of this year to assess technological readiness.

Both initiatives were emphasized by Finance Minister Clyde Caruana in his Budget 2025 speech. Caruana described the strategy to harness wind and solar resources as strategic, involving steps such as implementing a second interconnector, investing in battery energy storage, and launching a national policy for renewable energy projects.

For floating wind, many elements are in place following the adoption of a national policy for offshore renewable energy in 2023. This policy highlighted Malta’s potential outside its 12-nautical-mile territorial waters and within the Exclusive Economic Zone, selecting the most suitable sites for floating wind farms.

In the 2025 budget, the Ministry for Finance estimated renewable energy schemes will require EUR 4.1 million next year.

According to a 2021 assessment by the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), Ocean Renewable Energy Action Coalition (OREAC), and World Bank-funded ESMAP, Malta has 25 GW of technical offshore wind potential, all deemed most suitable for floating wind technology.

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Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024