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4 gozotoday | FRIDAY • 24 OCTOBER 2025 NEWS CONTINUES FROM PAGE 1 "This is the first installation of its kind in Malta and only the second in the world. The energy produced will power the light- ing and charge electric buses operating the Park and Ride service between Mġarr Port and Ta' Xħajma," Camilleri said. "It's an innovative project that sets an example for continued investment in clean, alternative energy technologies," he added. Parliamentary Secretary Omar Farrugia said the installation strengthens Malta and Gozo's reputation as leaders in renew- able energy adoption. "This project puts Malta and Gozo on the world map and serves as a model for other countries aiming for a sustain- able, renewable-energy future," he said. "Through collabora- tion between government de- partments and the Vision 2050 strategy, we are delivering pro- jects that embrace renewable and sustainable energy in prac- tical, forward-looking ways." The electricity generated by the 15 solar flowers will directly offset the energy used to charge Gozo's fleet of electric Park and Ride buses. The government said the initiative represents a circular and self-sufficient ap- proach to transport decarboni- sation by cutting emissions and operating costs while contrib- uting to Malta's national cli- mate and energy targets. The Solar Flowers Project is being implemented under the EU-funded Recovery and Re- silience Plan (RRP) measure C1-I5: Renewable Energy In- vestments in Roads and Public Spaces, part of the NextGener- ationEU programme. It is be- ing carried out in collaboration with EkoGozo and the Public Works Department within the Ministry for Gozo and Plan- ning. Officials said the project demonstrates how innovation, renewable energy and sustaina- ble transport can work together to build a smarter, cleaner and more resilient Gozo. Camilleri says project marks another step towards environmental sustainability MINISTER for Gozo Clint Camilleri held a series of meet- ings in Brussels during the Eu- ropean Union's Regions Week, focusing on securing more flex- ible funding to improve con- nectivity and infrastructure for island regions such as Gozo. Camilleri addressed the con- ference "Cohesion Objectives Beyond Cohesion Policy" at the Committee of the Regions, which discussed European fund- ing for peripheral regions across the EU. He said the discussions came at a key time following the European Commission's pres- entation of the new Multiannu- al Financial Framework (MFF), as member states submit their proposals and suggestions to strengthen the funding package. The minister said it was vital that the MFF becomes a flexible instrument rather than a rig- id one, allowing regions facing structural disadvantages to turn challenges into opportunities. "Islands across the EU face ad- ditional difficulties compared to mainland regions, including is- sues of insularity, travel and ade- quate infrastructure," Camilleri said. "That is why the MFF must be adaptable to address these re- alities and serve as a driver for the necessary changes." Camilleri emphasised the need for the EU to prioritise connec- tivity for island regions, both maritime and air, to ensure they can progress on par with central European regions. "Our propos- al focuses on strengthening con- nectivity. We must ensure that our collective voice continues to highlight these challenges so that they are addressed effec- tively," he said. He added that the new MFF should give greater attention to the competitiveness of island regions, as their sustainable growth contributes to Europe's overall economic strength. Camilleri also called for in- creased recognition of ports and maritime transport as vital ele- ments of connectivity and social inclusion. The minister urged that is- lands receive fair access to EU funding programmes such as the Connecting Europe Facility and the Competitiveness Fund. He highlighted the need to pri- oritise investment in port and airport upgrades, digital con- nectivity, sustainable mobility and improved ferry services. Camilleri welcomed the expan- sion of the Erasmus programme and stressed that simplifying administrative procedures is essential for smaller administra- tions to operate efficiently. He also reiterated the need for the EU to apply "island-proofing" in its policies, ensuring that size or location does not exclude island regions from European initia- tives. Concluding his visit, Minister Camilleri reaffirmed Malta and Gozo's full commitment to the European dialogue and called for greater awareness of the spe- cific challenges faced by islands within the EU. Gozo minister calls for flexible EU funding to strengthen island connectivity The electricity generated by the 15 solar flowers will directly offset the energy used to charge Gozo's fleet of electric Park and Ride buses Minister for Gozo Clint Camilleri held a series of meetings in Brussels during the European Union's Regions Week

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