Story perspectives

Malta Powers Up Sustainability with MSC Ships' Shore Connection

10/20/2025

Summary

Story summary

On October 15–16, 2025, MSC World Europa and EXPLORA II connected to shore power in Valletta, Malta, on consecutive days.
Malta's Prime Minister Dr. Robert Abela attended, underscoring sustainable tourism and alignment with EU's Fit for 55 plan.
Since the 2024 inauguration, MSC ships logged about 300 hours connected, reducing emissions by roughly half a month of operations.
Eighteen of MSC's 25 vessels are now shore-side electricity-equipped, with ongoing retrofitting.

History

Historical Context

The European Union's Fit for 55 plan, launched in July 2021, aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030, building on the European Green Deal established in 2019. Malta's Prime Minister Robert Abela supports sustainable tourism, while the recent shore power connection for MSC World Europa and EXPLORA II in Valletta exemplifies the cruise industry's commitment to eco-friendly practices, significantly lowering emissions.

1 of 2

Story summary

On October 15–16, 2025, MSC World Europa and EXPLORA II connected to shore power in Valletta, Malta, on consecutive days.
Malta's Prime Minister Dr. Robert Abela attended, underscoring sustainable tourism and alignment with EU's Fit for 55 plan.
Since the 2024 inauguration, MSC ships logged about 300 hours connected, reducing emissions by roughly half a month of operations.
Eighteen of MSC's 25 vessels are now shore-side electricity-equipped, with ongoing retrofitting.

1 / 2