Power bill 'not related to Enemalta affairs'

The Federation of Industry was mistaken to think that any inefficiencies of Enemalta Corporation were reflected in the electricity bill paid by consumers, the Industry Ministry said yesterday.

The ministry said it was surprised by the FOI's statement, especially since all the facts on the surcharge were explained to the federation, which was one of the social partners within the Malta Council for Social and Economic Development.

On Thursday the FOI said it was deeply concerned that SMEs were made "to carry not only the increases in international oil prices, but are also making good for technical losses, including the theft of electricity".

The ministry said it should be made clear that the surcharge was calculated on a formula tied to the shift in international fuel prices and had no relation whatsoever to Enemalta's financial situation or internal affairs.