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Cyprus Renewable Energy Sector Under Scrutiny: President Demands Swift Transformation

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

November 19, 2025

Cyprus is under increasing pressure to expedite progress in developing its renewable energy sector, a sentiment expressed forcefully by President Nikos Christodoulides at the 13th Energy Symposium in Nicosia. In his address, the president outlined an ambitious energy strategy concentrating on renewable sources, gas exploration, and enhanced regional interconnectivity, while openly criticizing the sluggish pace of renewable initiatives—a fault he deemed entirely within Cyprus’ control.

Renewable Energy And Gas Exploration

Emphasizing the conference theme, ‘Time For Action In Energy,’ President Christodoulides stressed that global expectations have shifted from rhetoric to the execution of tangible projects. Notably, he recalled that although Cyprus made its first gas discovery in 2011, the exploitation of these deposits within its Exclusive Economic Zone has yet to commence, even as 2025 advances.

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Renewables In The Spotlight

While the president discussed the potential of gas extraction and regional electricity interconnections, his most scathing remarks focused on the renewable energy shortfall. Despite Cyprus enjoying an average of 350 sunny days per year, the current integration of renewable sources into its energy mix stands at a modest 23 percent. In stark contrast to northern European nations, which have achieved higher renewable penetration even with less sunlight, this disparity is a source of national disappointment.

Government Initiatives And Reform

Highlighting progress under his administration, Christodoulides cited significant developments in photovoltaic adoption—8,500 applications submitted and upgrades completed for 4,000 homes to date. He also underlined future green tax incentives and a crucial overhaul of the transmission system to bolster energy storage and grid stability. The president argued that modern energy storage is essential not only for maximizing renewable output but also for reducing costs and supporting a more resilient grid.

Market Liberalization And Consumer Benefits

In a concurrent reform, Cyprus recently launched its competitive electricity market on October 2. This move is expected to allow consumers to select suppliers in a more transparent, flexible, and cost-effective manner. By integrating conventional generation with renewable production, the reform is poised to offer significant benefits to households and businesses alike.

Strategic Regional Interconnections

Addressing the highly debated issue of regional interconnection, the president confirmed ongoing discussions with neighboring states regarding electrical grid integration. He endorsed the €1.9 billion Great Sea Interconnector project (GSI), connecting the electricity grids of Cyprus, Greece, and Israel. Upgrades to both the economic and technical parameters of the project were recently agreed upon in Athens.

Forming Strategic Alliances

President Christodoulides also highlighted the newly established 3+1 energy cooperation framework between Cyprus, Israel, Greece, and the United States as a strategic initiative. This alliance is aimed at fortifying energy security by diversifying the region’s energy sources and diminishing dependence on less reliable actors. Meetings, including one in Athens and upcoming sessions in Washington, DC, are set to further align the interests of Eastern Mediterranean nations with those of global energy powerhouses.

Overcoming Challenges And Future Outlook

Despite occasional controversies surrounding the GSI project—such as financial commitment concerns by Greek officials and alleged conflicts of interest as noted in previous reports—ongoing dialogue among key ministers, including Energy Ministers George Papanastasiou and Stavros Papastavrou along with European Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen, has helped defuse tensions. Looking ahead, the interconnector is seen as a cornerstone of the broader India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC) initiative, reinforcing Cyprus’ strategic importance in the regional energy landscape.

Looking Beyond

In a final note at the symposium, President Christodoulides announced plans for an upcoming trip to Lebanon on November 26 to engage in further strategic energy discussions. This international outreach underscores Cyprus’ commitment to not only resolving its current challenges but also positioning itself as a dynamic alternative energy corridor to Europe.

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EU Mercosur Agreement Sparks Political Battle Over Cyprus Agriculture

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

January 16, 2026

A political battleground emerged in the Parliamentary Agriculture Committee’s latest session, as fierce debates broke out over the controversial trade deal between the European Union and Latin American nations under the Mercosur framework. Lawmakers voiced deep concerns regarding food safety and the prospects for local agriculture, particularly following the high-profile absence of the Minister of Trade.

Minister Absence And Parliamentary Integrity

Committee Chair Giannakis Gabriel expressed strong disapproval over the Minister’s no-show, noting that the extraordinary session was scheduled at midday at the Minister’s own request. “His absence undermines the authority of the parliament,” Mr. Gabriel declared. Given that the Minister is not abroad, it was expected that he would be present to clarify why Cyprus supported an agreement widely criticized as disadvantaging the agricultural sector.

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Trade Deal Under Scrutiny

In his address, A.C.E.L General Secretary Stefanos Stefanos described the pact as a “dangerous agreement” imposed under the pressure of multinational conglomerates. He especially critiqued the contrasting sanitary standards whereby, while the EU bans our farmers from using certain pesticides and antibiotics, the Mercosur deal appears to allow imports produced with these very substances. His remarks underscored the possibility of double standards in safety measures and the potential long-term impacts on Cypriot agriculture.

Economic And Safety Concerns

Legislators questioned the basis of government studies that justified backing the agreement, even as Cyprus’ agricultural sustainability is increasingly threatened by water scarcity and soaring production costs. Representatives from various political factions pointed to insufficient controls over import volumes and tariff structures. For example, Christos Orphanidis (DIKO) demanded precise data on imports from Latin America, citing honey as a case in point, and pressed for clear explanations regarding the tariff regime.

Legal And Health Implications

Questions about legal authority were raised by Elias Myriantounos (EDEK), who inquired whether parliament can reject or amend the agreement should economic studies forecast negative outcomes. Environmental advocates, like Haralambos Theopemptou of the Movement of Ecologists, emphasized the need to safeguard traditional products such as halloumi, highlighting concerns over how rigorous food safety controls will be maintained. Meanwhile, Linos Papagiannis (ELAM) cautioned against unfair competition, drawing parallels with challenges posed by lower-standard goods from occupied territories.

Protecting Local Interests

The overarching message from lawmakers was clear: the future of Cyprus’ farming community and the well-being of its citizens should not be sacrificed at the altar of commercial trade. Agricultural organizations have voiced alarm over the importation of goods potentially contaminated with banned substances, the risk of market distortion by low-quality products, and the lack of localized impact studies. They argue that the agreement is biased in favor of select corporate interests, ultimately undermining consumer safety and the livelihood of European farmers.

As this debate continues to unfold, the outcome of these deliberations will be pivotal in determining not only trade policy but also the long-term economic and food security landscape of Cyprus.