Economic operators housed within MIP property, where the roof space is available to MIP, have been asked in writing on the 9th March 2015 by the same MIP to give a definite reply if they are interested to lease the roof by the 27th of May as otherwise this may be made available to third parties.
GRTU is currently in discussions with Minister Chris Cardona and the MIP in order to extend such period as we believe it is too little for an enterprise to get the required quotations and work out the viability of renting the roof space.
This is part of an initiative MIP is taking to better utilise the roof space in its current portfolio and as such any roof space that can be used will be made available for the installation of photovoltaic (PV) panels.
In line with the above, first preference will be given to the occupier of the property underlying the roof. If this occupier is not interested in leasing the roof space for the installation of PV panels then that roof space can be made available to a third party. In all cases, the rental rate of the roof are will be Eur 3.35 per square meter per annum excluding VAT.
GRTU is also in discussions with Parliamentary Secretary Ian Borg to come up with a scheme that helps out these MIP tenants carry out such an incentive. The scheme should help the tenants with the guarantees required and, as such, lower interest rates when borrowing from the banks.
GRTU urges tenants not to commit at this stage since an extension will be issued and the scheme that will result from the discussions might change the way they look at such investment and the level of viability of the project.