Freeport CEO Alex Montebello welcomes ship-to-shore power system plans

Malta Freeport Terminals CEO Alex Montebello has welcomed an announcement by the Government that the tender for a shore-to-ship power system at the Freeport has been issued.

The tender was issued by Economy and Industry Minister Silvio Schembri.

The project - due for completion in 2024 - would allow cargo ships berthed at the Freeport to connect to the national electricity grid and switch off their engines.

Mr Montebello said the project would lead to cleaner air and less noise pollution, vibration and CO2 emissions, "further strengthening the Freeport's environmental credentials as well as significantly reducing inconvenience to residents caused by engines of berthed container ships."

The project will cost €13 million, and is co-financed by the European Union through the Just Transition Fund. 

Mr Montebello has worked at the Freeport for more than 17 years. Before becoming CEO, he worked in a number of other roles, including as an IT Manager, Business Development Manager and Director of Sales.