An evaluation of policy options to reach Malta's 2020 renewable energy and greenhouse gas emissions targets for the transport sector

Abstract

This dissertation evaluates the effectiveness of a number of policy measures in achieving Malta's 2020 targets for renewable energy share and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from within the transport sector. Since Malta has no rail system, limited national navigation and negligible internal aviation, most measures target road transport. The assessment concentrates on this sector with special emphasis on measures affecting passenger cars as this is the largest and the most dynamic sector and which therefore offers the largest potential for reductions in GHG emissions. The effectiveness of each measure depends on both its implementation as well as on other parameters which are continuously changing the local transport scenario. These include vehicle ownership growth, preferred fuel type, vehicle fleet turnover, technological advances, legal requirements and economic growth. These parameters were evaluated and integrated in a basic mathematical model which was used to project fuel demand under different scenarios which could result should specific measures be implemented.