Recent Datasets Show That Malta Has The Worst Energy Efficiency Progress In The EU
Malta has one of the lowest rates of home energy efficiency improvements in the EU, with only 8.4% of its population living in dwellings that have been recently upgraded, according to Eurostat’s 2023 data. This figure is well below the EU average of 25.5%, placing Malta at the bottom of the list alongside Greece and Cyprus.
The data gives an indication of the extent to which residential properties have undergone renovations to enhance energy performance.
This includes all measures that impact the thermal conditions of a household. Key renovation activities covered by this indicator include the upgrading of thermal insulation in external walls, roofs, or floors; the replacement of single-glazed windows with double or triple-glazed units; and the installation of more efficient heating systems.
The rate of home improvements was low for both respondents living at risk of poverty (6.7%) as well as those not living under conditions of poverty and social exclusion (8.8%).
By comparison, countries like Estonia and the Netherlands report nearly half of their vulnerable populations benefitting from such upgrades.
One reason for Malta trailing behind other central European countries could be the country’s relatively mild weather. While Malta can experience very cold or hot spells, they are likely not long enough to tempt people into making home improvements.
Earlier this June, the European Commission urges Malta’s government to cut energy subsidies and improve renewable energy use.
Do you think Malta will improve its energy efficiency?