Marsa and Delimara power stations - October 18, 2002

Combustion plants, such as power stations, emit a number of dangerous substances such as nitrogen oxide and dust, which, if not controlled, affect our respiratory system. EU law limits these emissions. The Delimara Power Station is mostly in line with EU standards, except for the levels of dust. On this point, Malta requested a transition period until the end of 2005 to reduce these emissions to EU levels. Malta's request was accepted.

Malta's request applies only to the Delimara Power Station. This means that the Marsa Power Station must be in line with EU standards on emissions by membership or else it will have to be closed down altogether. Compliance of the Marsa station will be achieved through the use of low-sulphur oil at Marsa and a greater shift in load to the Delimara power station. By membership, Malta will also draw up a programme to reduce other emissions, such as sulphur dioxide.