Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1530423
10 OPINION maltatoday | WEDNESDAY • 11 DECEMBER 2024 Residential PV capacity limits have been raised by 25% MALTA has advanced its clean energy transition with the pub- lication of the amended Elec- tricity Connection and Supply Regulations (ECSR) and Elec- trical Installations Regulations (EIR). These amendments not on- ly represent a significant leap in ensuring the sustainability, safety, and efficiency of our electricity system but also re- affirm Malta's commitment to decarbonisation and a for- ward-looking energy vision. Over the past decade, Malta has made remarkable progress in renewable energy adoption. With these new regulations, the country is combining tech- nological advancements with practical measures to empower consumers and accelerate the shift to cleaner energy sourc- es. Renewable energy systems (RES) remain central to Mal- ta's decarbonisation strategy. The updated regulations fur- ther support this transition by making it easier for house- holds to install larger photo- voltaic (PV) systems. Notably, residential PV capacity limits have been raised by 25%, re- flecting the improved efficien- cy of modern PV panels, which generate more energy in less space. This increased capacity ap- plies specifically to PV sys- tems equipped with Volt-Var control, ensuring voltage fluc- tuations are managed at the source rather than at the grid level. A new low-voltage connec- tion (three-phase 40A) has al- so been introduced, designed to support high-energy-de- mand systems like electric vehicle chargers and modern appliances. Compared to the conventional three-phase 60A connection, this option re- duces costs while encouraging renewable energy adoption at home. Moreover, the regulations now allow consumers to act as both energy suppliers and consumers, promoting a mod- ern bi-directional energy flow model. Updated methodolo- gies for calculating electric- ity demand now account for garages and electric vehicle charging, ensuring future- proofing begins at the design stage of developments. To uphold the highest stand- ards, the regulations introduce several measures prioritising safety and quality. Systems rated above 300A must be designed and certified by qualified engineers with Au- thorisation B, ensuring that large-scale projects are man- aged by experienced profes- sionals. This requirement, effective from July 2025, provides en- gineers with sufficient time to secure the necessary authori- sation. Compliance with IET Standards now remains appli- cable up to the 1st July 2018, and updates in this standard will not be directly adopted within local regulations, ensur- ing Malta-specific compliance standards. This streamlines processes to local conditions and avoids un- necessary costs for consumers. Enhanced safety measures for electric motors, more conven- ient over-voltage protection options, and allowances for multiple Residual Current De- vices (RCDs) to avoid nuisance tripping are just some of the changes that prioritise both user convenience and system reliability. Additionally, these enhanced safety measures now allow maisonette residents with roof space rights to pass cabling through common areas to con- nect their PV systems, provid- ed essential safety measures are in place. Previously, the EIR did not permit connections outside individual dwellings, prevent- ing maisonette residents from routing PV systems through shared spaces. This significant barrier to PV installation has now been removed. The revised regulations also enhance fairness and transpar- ency in electrical system man- agement. They simplify the connec- tion process for smaller de- velopments, and introduce a reimbursement mechanism, allowing consumers to recoup investments when others con- nect to the same infrastructure. Substation ownership rights have been clarified, with agree- ments ensuring fair operation- al management. Independent architects will now value land for substations, replacing out- dated caps to ensure just com- pensation. As we navigate the challenges posed by climate change and rising energy demands, these regulations lay the founda- tion for a resilient, consum- er-centric energy future. By supporting renewable energy, enhancing safety, and fostering innovation, Malta continues to lead by example in its push for decarbonisation. These regulations equip us citizens with the tools and opportunities to actively con- tribute to this transformation while ensuring that our energy systems are robust and pre- pared to meet the demands of tomorrow. These achievements result from extensive public and stakeholder consultations led by the Ministry for the Envi- ronment, Energy and Regen- eration of the Grand Harbour, the Regulator for Energy and Water Services, and Enemalta. Modernising and decarbonising our electrical systems Engineer Alexander Tanti is policy consultant at the ministry for energy and the environment Alexander Tanti