US Embassy inaugurates energy-savings project

US Ambassador G. Kathleen Hill yesterday inaugurated the US Embassy’s new energy-saving photovoltaic and wind turbine systems.

Minister Jose Herrera, Minister of Sustainable Development, the Environment and Climate Change, and Donna McIntireByrd, Chief of Energy and Sustainable Design at the Department of State’s Bureau of Overseas Buildings Operations, also participated in the ceremony.

The event celebrated the conclusion of a wider project, which includes a 350-kilowatt solar photovoltaic installation, a wind turbine and a solar pool heater. The project will produce renewable energy year-round, taking advantage of Malta’s abundant wind and sunshine.

The Department of State contracted Solar Solutions Ltd. (Malta) to complete the project.

Ambassador Hill said, “Renewable energy installations are tangible demonstrations of America’s values and commitment to the environment, helping to reduce the U.S. government’s environmental footprint and cut carbon emissions.”

Ms McIntire-Byrd gave examples of Overseas Buildings Operations’ environmental efforts at US embassies around the globe. She said that US embassies represent the best in American architecture, engineering, technology, sustainability, art, culture and construction execution.

Minister Herrera welcomed the US Embassy’s efforts to protect the local environment. He said, “The US Embassy is to be commended for its commitment to enhancing its environmental credentials. These projects, which utilize renewable energies, help Malta address its climate change targets and objectives.”