Buying a solar water heater

Mario Cassar

In the very near future I am buying a water solar heater. What is the procedure in buying such a heater and what are the benefits one is entitled for?

Reply - Government Notice 81 of 2009 is still in force, therefore one can still apply to obtain a grant of maximum €460 on the purchase of a solar water heater.

In order to apply for a grant under the scheme, you need to obtain a quotation on the solar water heater that you propose to purchase, together with the vendor you have to fill in Part 1 and 2 of the application form, send it to the Malta Resources Authority (MRA) accompanied by the quotation, a photo of the roof where you intend to install the solar water heater as well as a copy of your water and electricity bill.

The copy of the electricity bill is required as proof that the applicant is the owner and resident of the place where the system is going to be installed. If there is not an electricity meter yet installed in the building, you can send to the MRA a copy of the contract of purchase of the said building (only the page showing that you or the applicant are the owners of the said building.)

Once the MRA certifies that the application fulfils all the criteria, a grant letter will be issued and you will be given a four month time period to install the solar water heater. Once it is installed and certified, you can send Part III of the application form which will entitle you to receive the grant.

Copy of the application forms as well as a list of approved equipment and suppliers can be found on the website www.mra.org.mt. It is important to note that measures and incentives announced in the budget do not come online immediately except for fiscal measures. Other measures and incentives come into force once a Government Notice or a Legal Notice is announced.

Replies are given by the Ministry of Finance

budget@timesofmalta.com