Energy Minister Konrad Mizzi is insisting the Delimara gas power station project is on track despite EU concern that it may be delayed.

In its otherwise positive economic spring forecast, the European Commission noted yesterday that delays in the construction of a new power plant posed “a downside risk” to growth projections.

But when asked about the matter, Dr Mizzi said the project was progressing “as per project plan” and the agreement with Electrogas would be signed this week.

The project was predicted to be completed within 18 months, which means that if construction work starts later this month it must be ready in November next year.

Electrogas was selected last year  to build the gas power station and the infrastructure to handle and store liquefied natural gas.

The State energy company will commit itself to buy the electricity generated by the new power station for the next 18 years with the price fixed for the first five.

A development permit for the construction of the power station, a regassificator and a jetty where a floating storage unit will be permanently moored was issued by the planning authority in March.

Asked whether the potential delay could impact the government’s electoral pledge to lower electricity tariffs for business consumers in March next year, Dr Mizzi insisted the promise will be kept.

ksansone@timesofmalta.com