Photo: Chris Sant Fournier

I am a retired electrical engineer and my career involved working in the UK for various electricity companies on distribution networks. During this time I had to deal with power failures on systems up to 132kV.

Power failures on electricity networks can happen at any time, mostly caused by faults due to adverse weather, the environment and human interference. This could be compounded by a lack of maintenance, previously stressed or ageing equipment. In all cases it is vital that the faulty section is automatically disconnected in a matter of milliseconds.

It is also essential that equipment is designed and maintained to withstand the surge of current and the mechanical forces generated during abnormal conditions.

If a fault is not disconnected quickly, the next stage of circuit protection should operate, but in the meantime, the point of fault would be subjected to increased energy discharge, causing possible fire and explosion. With this situation, problems can very quickly escalate to affect a much larger section of network.

Regarding the Malta incident, it was extremely lucky that no one was injured and vital equipment (generators and transformers) were not damaged. Credit must be given to Enemalta staff who quickly located the problems and progressively restored supplies from a black start.

This incident should alert the government and Enemalta to the importance of continuous investment in a modern, well-designed and competently maintained electrical distribution network. This also includes having reserve capacity to provide back-up supplies.

Essential services, the airport included, must have battery and or emergency generation that take over vital supplies instantly or in a matter of seconds in the event of loss of main supplies. Good maintenance procedures and routine testing programmes must be in place.

This incident has reminded all of us just how much we rely on a safe and secure electricity supply, especially at peak times.

I fully appreciate the hardship its loss can cause more than anyone. I do hope that a full report will be prepared on this incident with recommendations for the authorities to consider.