As politicians fiercely debate the future of Malta’s power stations, the planning authority’s board yesterday gave a nod to the past by approving the restoration of Malta’s first one.

Located beneath Crucifix Hill in Floriana, the old power station forms part of the Valletta Waterfront site and once restored will be used as part of the cruise passenger terminal. It will accommodate a baggage check-in facility, office space and retail outlets.

The building is an amalgamation of a number of multi-period buildings, which include a late 17th century arsenal and lime kiln, 18th century oil vats and grain stores and the power station which was last extended and repaired following war damage.

Recent works have also exposed a battery wall to the immediate west of the site.

“The restoration works will ensure that all surviving features and existing fabric will be preserved and remain as a testament of the architectural evolution of the site,” Mepa said in a statement.

To establish symmetry, the missing clock tower will be reconstructed. All existing apertures that have been blocked up will be restored and reopened.

The project will also include an external staircase that will provide easier pedestrian access. This will facilitate the link between the cruise liner terminal facility and Valletta.

The staircase will be linked to the roof top of the restored power station which, in turn, will provide access midway onto Crucifix Hill, just opposite Boffa Hospital. The entire pedestrian passageway will be accessible to all, Mepa said.

The dawn of electricity

1882: Electric lighting was introduced for the first time in Malta during the opera Un Ballo in Maschera at the Royal Opera House. During the same year, Piazza San Giorgio in Valletta was also illuminated by electric lighting.

1883: The first demonstration of electricity for consumers’ use was demonstrated by Chev. Edward Rosenbusch at his residence in Valletta.

1890: The Government commissioned the first feasibility study to advise on the introduction of electric current supply in Malta.

1894: The rise of the first public electricity service. The Central Power Station, as it was known, was erected at the foot of Crucifix Hill, Floriana. It consisted of a set of four steam-driven generating units with a capacity of 350KW.

1904-1915: During this period, due to the expansion of the electricity system in Malta, more generating units were added to the already existing plant.

Source: Enemalta.com.mt

The restored building will be part of the cruise terminal. Photo: Matthew Mirabelli