Enemalta says 50% have been ‘solved’

Close to 5,000 complains have been lodged on voltage fluctuations across the Maltese islands since the start of last year of which only half have been “solved”. Such fluctuations may have serious consequences as they may result in damages or even irreparable harm to electronic devices. Consequently, consumers may opt to install surge protectors and voltage stabilisers alongside their smart meter to safeguard their entire home.

Data tabled recently in parliament by Energy Minister Miriam Dalli in reply to questions from Opposition MP Rebekah Borg shows that since January 1, 2022, Enemalta received 1,540 reports of high voltage and 3,258 low voltage reports. These complaints are filed whenever the domestic power supply which in Malta is of 230V varies significantly.  

Though no information was divulged if there were any cases in which these fluctuations caused damages, the minister pointed out that in 38% of the complaints filed on low voltage the matter was “solved”. The respective figure for high voltage complaints was of 77% of cases, which contributed to an overall rate of 50%. 

Moreover, the minister remarked that Enemalta had embarked on a €90 million project spread over six years to address voltage fluctuations across its power grid. So far 48 new substations have been built, three distribution centres strengthened, 80 new feeders installed and 100 kilometres of power lines changed.

A deeper analysis of the data reveals that the highest number of complaints on high voltage were filed from residents in Mellieħa with 96 cases, followed by Qormi with 75. As for complaints of low voltage, the highest concentration of cases was in Mosta 179 cases, followed by Qormi (169).

State Energy company Enemalta states in its website that complaints on voltage fluctuations outside a range of ±10% are to be reported to its customer care section for further investigation which should take no longer than 30 days. If any interventions are necessary, action would be sought within 30 days following the conclusion of investigations. However, Enemalta states that such timeframe may not apply in case extensive network development works have to be carried out.  

Customers who are dissatisfied with the outcome of such investigation, may seek redress before and advisory board which may grant compensation up to €3,500. Claims above this amount are to be presented before a proper court.