Momentum calls on PN to withdraw proposed offshore LNG hub

Momentum expressed its concern over the recent Nationalist Party (PN) proposal to develop a large-scale offshore LNG hub on Hurd’s Bank, which they said shows a serious lack of consideration for the environmental, economic and community implications, particularly those affecting Malta’s fragile marine ecosystems and coastal localities.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Momentum called on the PN to immediately withdraw  its proposal and to engage meaningfully with residents, environmental experts, civil society, and the wider public to ensure that any future plans are sustainable, responsible, and aligned with Malta’s environmental, social and economic priorities.

This comes after PN Leader Alex Borg proposed the creation of a Mediterranean Maritime Fuel Hub, which consists of building bunkering infrastructure near Hurd’s Bank.

The party insisted that the waters surrounding the Maltese Islands are not only a vital natural resource but also a cornerstone of our biodiversity, economy, and quality of life, warning that the proposal poses significant risks on the environment, such as fire and explosion hazards, leaks, and the potential thermal and ecological impacts on marine life.

Momentum also pointed out that the project puts Malta’s water security directly at stake, since the country relies on reverse osmosis plants for water supply, adding that any contamination in surrounding waters could compromise these facilities.

Beyond environmental concerns, Momentum said that the project poses serious economic risks since tourism depends heavily on Malta’s clean waters and attractive coastline. The industry may suffer severe consequences as a consequence of such a large offshore fuel installation, adding that even without a major accident, the perception of industrial activity in open sea areas may undermine Malta’s image as a pristine Mediterranean destination.

“Any project of this scale must place people, environmental protection and long-term sustainability at its core,” Momentum Secretary General Mark Camilleri Gambin said. “The proposal does not meet this basic standard.”

Momentum reiterated that Malta’s energy future should not be tied to fossil fuel dependency, and instead focus on investing into renewable energy solutions including offshore and rooftop solar, wind energy where feasible, and energy storage systems.