Malta will reach its pledged EU2020 renewable energy targets, Energy Minister Joe Mizzi told Parliament on Friday.

Referring to the government’s continued investment in clean energy, through the gas pipeline among others, Mr Mizzi said Malta faced challenges when it came to water and electricity resources because of its high population density.

However, he noted, the government continued to launch new incentives.

“The aim is that by 2020, 10% of the energy is generated through renewable sources – we will reach this target through the use of solar energy, biomass, biofuel, and energy generated through waste, among others.”

The closure and dismantling of heavy fuel oil plants was one of the main 'tools' that would help the government reach its target.

Investment in solar farms would also take Malta closer to the 2020 target. Mr Mizzi referred to collaboration between the Malta Chamber of SMEs and the Water Services Cooperation, through which solar farms were installed on the WSC’s reservoirs. More such panels will be installed in Qrendi, Ta’ Qali and Ta’ Ċenċ, he said.

In his address, Mr Mizzi reiterated that utility billing “anomaly” would be addressed next year.

However, he refuted claims of “theft” by the Automated Revenue Management Services.

Mr Mizzi explained that he has consulted with experts, and it transpired that the current computation system was used under the previous administration. People had complained back then.

The anomaly discovered in the process, which affected some people with particular consumption patterns would be addressed.

Mr Mizzi also noted that next year, Arms was to continue improving its smart utilities portal and call centre. Arms’ employees would be trained so as to be able to address all queries for an efficient service.

The company would meanwhile embark on a file digitalisation project, while employees would move to more adequate premises.