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Cyprus Government Unveils New Energy Storage Grants To Slash Electricity Costs

In a bold move to combat rising energy costs and strengthen energy security, Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides has announced new government grant schemes for energy storage systems aimed at both businesses and households.

The initiative is designed to reduce electricity costs by promoting the use of energy storage technologies and increasing the share of Renewable Energy Sources (RES) in the national energy mix. Christodoulides emphasized that this move is part of broader efforts to enhance energy security across the island.

During the presentation of the Government’s Annual Programme for 2025 on 29 January, the President revealed that the government is launching the “Photovoltaics for All” scheme, targeting small businesses. This initiative is set to play a key role in encouraging businesses to invest in solar energy solutions, thus lowering their energy bills. Additionally, the competitive electricity market is expected to open fully, giving consumers more choice and flexibility.

The government is also making significant strides to improve Cyprus’ energy infrastructure, with the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminal at Vasilikos near completion. This project is expected to reduce the reliance on conventional electricity generation methods and help lower overall electricity costs.

Looking further ahead, the President confirmed that efforts to exploit natural gas reserves in Cyprus’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) would intensify throughout 2025. Specifically, he announced plans for two new drilling operations at the ‘Elektra’ and ‘Pegasus’ targets. On top of that, President Christodoulides is set to travel to Egypt on 17 February to sign agreements aimed at the commercial development of the ‘Kronos’ and ‘Aphrodite’ gas fields, marking a significant step in Cyprus’ energy strategy.

Lithuania And Cyprus Forge Enhanced Partnership In Tourism And Defence

Expanding Cooperation Beyond The Surface

Kristupas Vaitiekūnas highlighted opportunities for closer cooperation between Lithuania and Cyprus during his visit to Nicosia for the informal ECOFIN meeting. Speaking to the Cyprus News Agency, the Lithuanian finance minister said both countries share common challenges and could expand collaboration in areas including tourism, defence and financial services.

Addressing Shared Challenges

Finance Minister Kristupas Vaitiekūnas said Lithuania and Cyprus face similar security and economic pressures despite their geographic differences. Particular attention was given to emerging security threats, including drone-related risks, alongside the importance of maintaining resilient financial sectors. According to Vaitiekūnas, stronger coordination in those areas could deliver long-term economic and strategic benefits for both countries.

Focus On Fiscal Stability And Energy Security

Discussions at the ECOFIN meeting are expected to focus on Europe’s economic outlook, energy market volatility and fiscal stability. Kristupas Vaitiekūnas warned that instability in the Middle East could continue affecting oil markets and broader economic performance across Europe. Housing affordability was also identified as a growing challenge, with rising property prices in cities such as Vilnius reflecting broader pressures seen across European markets.

Coordinated Energy Strategy And Future Investments

The Lithuanian finance minister also called for a more coordinated European approach to energy and economic resilience. Vaitiekūnas suggested that targeted and temporary policy measures could prove more effective than large-scale structural reforms in addressing short-term pressures. Lithuania continues to increase investment in renewable energy generation and storage infrastructure as part of efforts to strengthen energy independence and begin producing surplus electricity by 2028.

Support For Ukraine And Enhancing Defence Funding

Finance Minister Kristupas Vaitiekūnas reaffirmed Lithuania’s support for Ukraine, describing the war as a broader struggle tied to European security and democratic values. He also backed accelerating Ukraine’s accession process to the European Union, arguing that deeper integration would strengthen regional stability and economic prosperity. Vaitiekūnas welcomed the EU’s SAFE programme, which is expected to support Lithuania’s defence capabilities while contributing additional assistance to Ukraine.

Looking Ahead To A More Unified Europe

Addressing the European Union’s future budget framework, Kristupas Vaitiekūnas said increased funding for security and defence represented a positive development. At the same time, he warned that reductions in cohesion funding and agricultural support could negatively affect purchasing power and long-term European unity. Lithuania is expected to place continued emphasis on Ukraine and regional security ahead of its upcoming EU Council Presidency in early 2027.

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