Demand for Generators Escalates as Malta and Gozo Endure Continuous Power Outages
Generator suppliers in Malta and Gozo are witnessing a significant surge in enquiries and sales as the regions grapple with persistent power cuts during the height of summer. The unreliable power supply has left thousands of households and businesses in disarray.
Max Zammit, sales manager at Moppelshop, shared with the Times of Malta, “On Saturday alone, I sold six generators, and in recent weeks, I’ve received about five calls a day from Gozitans inquiring about generators.” He added, “We were surprised by the spike in sales, prompting us to order more units. We have generators ready in Germany and many en route to Malta.”
Specializing in portable fuel-driven generators, Moppelshop quickly adapted to the situation, displaying signs at its Żebbuġ (Gozo) and Naxxar offices asking, “Are you prepared for the next power outage?” This campaign effectively captured public interest.
Since the onset of power cuts, Zammit reported selling an average of four generators daily, having already sold two by the morning of the Times of Malta’s interview. Many of his customers are from Gozo, some purchasing generators due to having newborn babies.
Prices for small generators, suitable for outdoor events, start at around €300, while larger units capable of powering a household can cost thousands.
For the second consecutive year, Malta and Gozo are facing extended power outages. On Saturday, areas like Gżira and parts of Gozo were without power for nearly 24 hours. Enemalta responded by installing 14 diesel-powered generators across various localities. Enemalta chairman Ryan Fava reassured the public about the safety of these generators, urging residents not to worry.
However, many businesses and residents are taking proactive measures.
60% Increase in Sales
Wholesale and supply shop Firm B. Pullicino (FBP) saw a spike in generator sales last summer when parts of the country experienced nine days of power outages amid temperatures exceeding 40°C.
“We observed a 60% increase in generator demand compared to previous years,” said Erica Spiteri, FBP’s sales marketing director. “Last year, we sold out our generators quickly, averaging ten sales a week.”
Clients included businesses, as well as individuals reliant on breathing machines needing uninterrupted power. “We’ve also seen winter demand, particularly from businesses prepping for summer and potential power cuts,” Spiteri noted.
The previous year saw customers mainly purchasing generators for recreational purposes or mobile kiosks, but the current situation is different. “The demand is constant, with people preparing for power cuts,” she said. Inquiries surged once recent power cuts began.
Rising Demand Despite Challenges
Marcus Mallia, owner of Machinery Sales and Services, echoed Spiteri’s observations. “The situation mirrors last year, with demand continuing to grow,” he explained. Despite the noise concerns associated with generators, particularly in apartment blocks, Mallia noted an increase in sales since last summer.
“Previously, we received about two calls a month regarding generators, often for barbecues,” Mallia stated. “Now, we get around six calls per week, primarily due to power cuts.”
Counting the Costs
Meanwhile, households and businesses are beginning to tally the costs associated with power surges. An electrician told the Times of Malta that in the past two weeks, several clients reported appliance damage due to power cuts. Among his main 15 clients, five sought repairs for their electrical appliances.
“One of my clients owns a hotel in Cospicua where the lift malfunctioned due to power cuts,” he shared. “Another client, who runs a guesthouse, had to refund guests after their AC unit failed.”
As Malta and Gozo continue to experience power instability, the demand for generators shows no signs of abating, highlighting the regions’ struggle to cope with persistent power issues.
Related topics:
