The Energy & Water Agency hosted a closing event for the GUEST project (Guesthouse owners and Users Embarking on a Sustainable Transition) in Gozo. The event brought together guesthouses and other operators in the accommodation sector, along with sustainability experts, and key stakeholders to share the main findings of the energy audits and discuss future opportunities in sustainable resource management for the accommodation sector.
The GUEST project has been instrumental in supporting guesthouses in adopting sustainable energy and water conservation practices. Recognising the distinct needs of guesthouses compared to larger hotels, the initiative provided tailored assistance, including energy and water audits for 28 guesthouses, including four operating in Gozo. These audits helped identify key areas for resource optimisation, improving operational efficiency, and reducing overall consumption.
Ing Charles Buttigieg, Chief Policy Officer of the Stakeholder Support Unit at the Energy & Water Agency, opened the event. He stated how “the GUEST project exemplifies our mission to support businesses, particularly smaller operators, in their journey toward sustainability. Guesthouses are an integral part of the tourism sector, and their commitment to greener operations can lead the way for a more environmentally responsible industry,” he stated.
One of the key highlights of the event was a presentation by Kevin Fsadni, Deputy CEO of Products & Regulatory at the Malta Tourism Authority, who discussed the importance of eco-certification in the accommodation sector. His presentation focused on how regulatory frameworks and certification programs can help guesthouses align with sustainability objectives while enhancing their market competitiveness.
The event also featured a session by Joe Muscat, CEO of the Gozo Tourism Association. He explored the opportunities and challenges facing the tourism sector in Gozo, focusing on the region’s unique position within Malta’s broader tourism landscape and the importance of sustainable growth.
The event featured presentations by various other experts including, Ing. Niki Brincat, the Lead Audit Engineer for the GUEST project, Dr. Jonathan Spiteri from the University of Malta, Nadia Grech from Malta Enterprise, Mark Muscat from fondi.eu and Hubert Debono, General Manager of The Embassy Valletta Hotel.
As the GUEST project comes to a close, its impact on the hospitality industry remains significant. By equipping guesthouses with the necessary knowledge, tools, and financial support, the initiative has set a strong foundation for long-term sustainable practices within Malta’s tourism sector.
This event was also part of the EU Life Project ‘EnergyEfficiency4SMEs which aims at improving energy efficiency in SMEs by promoting energy audits, sharing best practice, and facilitating financial aid. The Energy & Water Agency and the Malta Business Bureau are partners on this project.
SMEs may benefit from a grant that can cover the cost of carrying out an energy audit. More info may be found at https://energywateragency.gov.mt/energyaudits/ or sending an email to energyefficiency@gov.mt
