Cyprus Launches “Digital Citizen” App, Strengthening Ties with Greece on Digital Transformation

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

December 6, 2024

The Republic of Cyprus marked a significant step in its digital evolution with the launch of the “Digital Citizen” application on December 5. Built to the standards of Greece’s “Gov.gr Wallet,” the app represents a deepening collaboration between Cyprus and Greece in digital transformation, according to a joint statement by Cyprus’ Deputy Ministry of Research, Innovation and Digital Policy and Greece’s Ministry of Digital Governance.

The new app is now available for download on Google Play and the App Store. This milestone follows a memorandum of understanding between the two ministries, aimed at sharing expertise, best practices, and know-how in developing digital tools and services for citizens.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Looking ahead, the “Digital Citizen” and “Gov.gr Wallet” applications are expected to achieve full interoperability by the first quarter of 2025. Once operational, digital documents from both platforms will be mutually recognised, streamlining identification and transactions for citizens in Cyprus and Greece.

Greece’s Minister of Digital Governance, Dimitris Papastergiou, called the “Digital Citizen” app a pivotal achievement, describing it as “the Cypriot equivalent of our Gov.gr Wallet.” He emphasized the importance of collaboration in the digital sphere, stating that the exchange of expertise and innovative practices is crucial for addressing challenges at a European level.

“Digital transformation is a multidimensional effort,” Papastergiou said. “Our partnership sets an example for how countries can tackle significant issues collaboratively, delivering the best outcomes for their citizens.”

The launch of the “Digital Citizen” app underscores the shared commitment of Cyprus and Greece to embracing technology and enhancing the lives of their citizens through innovative solutions.

The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties

Solar Photovoltaics Drive Global Energy Demand: A Renewable Milestone

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

April 22, 2026

Solar Photovoltaics Lead The Charge

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems accounted for 27% of global energy demand growth in 2025, marking the first time a single renewable technology has led the increase. This compares with overall demand growth of 1.3% in 2025, 2% in 2024, and an average of 1.4% over the previous decade, highlighting the accelerating role of solar in the global energy mix.

Surpassing Traditional Energy Sources

Solar PV outpaced natural gas, which contributed 17% of the increase in energy demand. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), new solar installations added capacity equivalent to 600 terawatt-hours (TWh), bringing total solar generation to 2,700 TWh, or roughly 8% of global electricity production. This shift reflects growing reliance on renewable energy for power generation across major markets.

Follow THE FUTURE on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and Telegram

Traditional Fuels Under Pressure

Demand for fossil fuels showed slower growth. Natural gas consumption rose by 1% in the first half of the year, compared to 2.8% in 2024. Oil demand increased by 0.7%, with additional daily consumption reaching 650,000 barrels, down from 750,000 in 2024 and well below pre-pandemic increases of around 1.4 million barrels per day. Part of this slowdown is linked to the substitution of cleaner energy sources. Electric vehicle sales rose by 20% in 2025, accounting for roughly one-quarter of the global market.

Mixed Trends In Coal Consumption And Emissions

Coal demand increased by 0.4%, reflecting diverging regional trends. China and India reduced coal use as renewable capacity expanded, while the United States increased coal consumption in response to higher electricity demand. Coal contributed around 9% to demand growth, similar to wind energy.

Global CO2 emissions from the power sector rose by approximately 0.4%. Emissions declined in China due to increased use of renewables and nuclear energy, while U.S. emissions increased alongside higher coal usage.

Record-Breaking European Renewable Production

Europe recorded strong growth in renewable generation in the first quarter of 2026. Solar output increased by 15%, marking the highest quarterly rise on record, while wind generation grew by 22% year over year. Total renewable production reached 384.9 TWh, supported by solar, wind, and hydroelectric output. These gains helped offset volatility in gas markets linked to geopolitical tensions, including developments involving Iran.

Looking Ahead

Renewables are taking a larger share of global energy demand growth, with solar PV at the center of this shift. Combined contributions from renewables, biofuels, and nuclear energy now account for roughly 60% of new demand, indicating continued structural change in the global energy system.

Breaking news