A new Malta Enterprise scheme intended to encourage those working in the construction industry to scrap their old machinery and replace it with modern, low emissions and pro-environment equipment is drawing a lot of interest.
D uring a meeting organised by the MDA on the 14th of November, many contractors, members of the MDA, were given details about the workings of the €4 million budget dedicated to this scheme, which will see the scrappage of high emission old equipment from Maltese roads and the replacement with new technology machinery with much lower emissions and less noise.
MDA Director General, Marthese Portelli gave a presentation of this scheme which will start receiving applications as from the beginning of December. The scheme is based on a cash grant up to a maximum of €200,000 per undertaking covering 40% of the investment, encouraging operators to even consider hybrid and electric vehicles with the assistance going up to 60% for such upgrades. Applications will be assessed on a first-come-first-served basis.
Addressing contractors, MDA President Sandro Chetcuti said that this scheme is the result of consultation MDA held with the Government to make a real change in the way the industry operates and reduce emissions drastically.
Thanking Malta Enterprise and Economy Minister Silvio Schembri for taking on board the MDA’s proposal, Mr Chetcuti insisted that the MDA wants to create a sustainable construction industry making a significant leap forward, improving the quality of its work, operating with less inconvenience to the public and with better environmental standards.
Mr Chetcuti said that this scheme fits perfectly in the MDA’s strategy to raise the bar in the industry and said that more proposals will be coming up in the next months.
“This scheme is intended to drive change for a significant reduction of emissions by operators in this sector. The construction industry is a very important pillar for our economy, and we will continue to work with the MDA to see it move forward sustainably.”, said Minister Schembri.
Keith Abela, Policy Advisor to the Economy Ministry, gave further details of the Malta Enterprise scheme and explained the requirements for operators to be eligible whilst addressing concerns by MDA members.
About the Malta Developers Association
MDA brings together the large majority of private real estate developers, contractors, estate agents, landlords, renewable energy providers and other interested parties under one single umbrella to act as a potent force bringing about growth and development of this important sector of Malta’s economy.
Through its numerous initiatives and constant activities MDA promotes responsible development through legislative advocacy, educational programs, introduction of best practices and professional networking opportunities.
MDA advances responsible, sustainable development that creates jobs and benefits the communities in which its members work and live.
Malta Developers Association
Triq l-Orsolini, Gwardamangia, Pieta’ PTA1227 Malta Phone:(+356) 2122 8184, (+356) 7949 2095, (+356) 9945 1420 Email: info@mda.com.mt
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