Breaking news

Government Prioritizes Energy Security While Reducing Consumer Costs

Energy Security As The Primary Policy Focus

Michalis Damianos reiterated that ensuring energy security remains the government’s primary objective, with reducing costs for consumers identified as the next key priority. Speaking on a televised program, he explained that there is general agreement on the targets set in cooperation with Public Power Corporation, although approaches to achieving these objectives continue to differ. The discussion reflects an ongoing effort to balance long-term planning with immediate market pressures.

Natural Gas: A Strategic Pillar

A central element of this strategy is the introduction of natural gas into the energy system at Vasiliko. According to the minister, natural gas is expected to offer a more cost-efficient and less polluting alternative compared with existing fuels. Its integration is seen as a necessary step toward modernizing the energy mix and supporting a more stable pricing environment over time.

Investing In Storage And Renewables For Future Stability

Alongside natural gas, attention is also being directed toward expanding energy storage capacity and accelerating the development of renewable energy sources. These initiatives are expected to play a key role in improving grid stability and managing fluctuations in supply. Over the medium term, such investments are also intended to contribute to a gradual reduction in electricity costs, while supporting broader environmental objectives.

Addressing Persistent Challenges

Progress on major infrastructure projects has not been without obstacles. Delays affecting developments such as the Vasiliko power station and the broader rollout of natural gas have been acknowledged. Minister Damianos attributed these setbacks to structural and coordination challenges involving multiple stakeholders, noting that large-scale energy transitions often require complex alignment between public institutions, private operators, and regulatory bodies.

Engaging In Constructive Dialogue

Recent developments involving labor groups and the potential for further industrial action have added another layer of complexity to the sector. In response, the government has emphasized the importance of maintaining open and constructive dialogue. The aim is to reach balanced solutions that address workforce concerns while ensuring that strategic energy objectives remain on track.

Cyprus Aquaculture Production Highlights Resilience Amid EU Downturn

New data from Eurostat reveals a notable contraction in European Union aquaculture production, with overall volumes and values declining even as Cyprus continues to maintain its engagement in the sector.

Overview Of EU Aquaculture Production

EU aquaculture reached 1 million tonnes of fish, molluscs, algae and crustaceans in 2024, with a total value of €4.6 billion. Compared with 2023, production declined by 3.7% in volume and 3.6% in value, reflecting weaker sector performance.

Cyprus’ Role In European Aquaculture

Among the European nations, Cyprus produced 9,053.9 tonnes of farmed aquatic organisms, a modest yet steady contribution that underscores its role as an active participant in the region’s diversified aquaculture network.

Leading Contributors To EU Aquaculture

Production remains concentrated among a small group of countries. Spain led with 246,137 tonnes, representing 24.3% of total EU output. France followed with 181,434 tonnes, or 17.9%, and Greece with 127,493 tonnes, or 12.6%. Italy produced 98,051 tonnes, or 9.7%, while Poland accounted for 43,554 tonnes, or 4.3%. Together, these five countries generated more than two-thirds of total EU aquaculture output.

Species Breakdown And Economic Impact

Mussels emerged as the most produced species by live weight, accounting for 32.8% of the total EU output. In contrast, when assessed by economic value, trout led with 17.9%, followed by seabass (14.5%) and gilthead seabream (13.5%). These figures highlight the varying dynamics of species-specific production and their corresponding market impacts.

Sectorial Outlook

The 2024 data indicate a contraction in EU aquaculture, with declines in both output and value. Cyprus and other smaller producers continue to contribute to the overall supply as the sector adjusts to changing market conditions.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties
eCredo
Uol
Aretilaw firm

Become a Speaker

Become a Speaker

Become a Partner

Subscribe for our weekly newsletter