The government this morning launched three schemes to help families reduce their electricity consumption and help Malta achieve its renewable energy targets by 2020.

The first scheme, with an investment of €21 million in EU funds, will cover 50 per cent of the cost of photovoltaic panels, up to a maximum of €2,500 per application. Around 8,400 families can apply for the rebate through this scheme.

Families are also guaranteed a feed-in tariff of 22c per unit for the first six years and will subsequently receive the normal unit of electricity production cost.

The second scheme offers a €400 rebate, or 40 per cent of the capital cost, on the installation of solar water heaters. €600,000 in national funds are earmarked for this scheme.

The third scheme offers a rebate for families to invest in roof insulation and double glazing. Families can benefit from a 15.25 per cent rebate, up to a maximum of €1,000.

Addressing a press conference at the Upper Barrakka gardens, Energy Minister Konrad Mizzi said that through these three schemes, the government was delivering on three of its electoral promises.

The schemes, which will be administered by the Malta Resources Authority, will open on May 13 and will remain open until the end of the year, unless the funds are utilised before.

Malta is currently last in the EU in renewable energy and has to reached the 20 per cent target of renewable energy by 2020.

Mr Mizzi said that by the end of summer, the government will conclude its action plan on renewable energy which will include its plan on wind energy and the creation of solar farms.