EU Unveils Energy Plan To Cut Costs And Reduce Gas Dependence

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

February 21, 2025

The European Union is accelerating efforts to secure energy independence and shield industries from volatile energy prices. Its latest strategy focuses on fast-tracking renewable energy development, reshaping the gas market, and cutting reliance on Russian energy imports.

Key Initiatives: Breaking Free From Russian Gas

The EU remains focused on diversifying its energy supply, particularly in reducing reliance on Russian gas. Although pipeline imports have plummeted in recent years, liquefied Russian gas (LNG) shipments to the bloc actually increased in 2024. Brussels aims to eliminate all Russian energy imports by 2027.

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Next week, the European Commission will unveil a sweeping industrial support package, including plans to strengthen ties with LNG suppliers and expand infrastructure for exporting LNG. Strict market regulations will also be introduced to curb speculative trading that leads to price spikes.

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“Instead of using taxpayers’ money to pay for Russian gas while the proceeds go directly to Vladimir Putin’s coffers, the EU should do everything possible to start producing its own energy. However, there is still a need for gas, and we will have to find sources other than Russia. This could also mean more imports from the US,” said EU Energy Commissioner Dan Jorgensen.

Europe’s New Energy Model

The US has become the EU’s primary LNG supplier, especially after the 2022 war in Ukraine drastically cut Russian gas flows. The European Commission does not purchase gas directly but is working on new strategies to secure stable, long-term LNG contracts modeled after Japan’s approach—where Tokyo finances export infrastructure to lock in favorable agreements.

Under EU law, existing gas contracts must end by 2049 to meet the bloc’s 2050 net-zero emissions goal. While renewable energy adoption is expanding, electricity prices remain linked to the cost of gas. The Commission is now preparing a demand-pooling mechanism, allowing European companies to negotiate collective LNG supply deals to hedge against market volatility.

The final version of the energy package will be officially released on February 26, with potential revisions before publication.

Navigating Tensions With The US

The EU’s energy transition is further complicated by geopolitical tensions with Washington. President Donald Trump has warned of trade tariffs if Europe does not increase oil and gas imports from the US. With EU-US trade reaching a record $1.29 trillion in 2021, any disruptions could have widespread economic consequences.

Trump’s administration is also ramping up tariffs on key European exports, including steel, aluminum, cars, and pharmaceuticals. Expected retaliatory measures from the EU could escalate tensions, further challenging Europe’s efforts to balance energy security with trade relations.

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Navigating Persistent Pressures: Labour Shortages, Bureaucracy, And Payment Delays In Limassol

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

December 19, 2025

Labour Shortages Challenge Expansion

Recent data from the Limassol Chamber Of Commerce And Industry underscores the enduring pressure within Limassol’s business community. Rather than indicating a sudden economic downturn, the survey reveals a gradual intensification of challenges that have long been a concern for local enterprises.

Skilled Labour In Short Supply

At the forefront is a chronic shortage of skilled labour, which accounts for 22.5% of the responses. Companies across a diverse range of sectors—from engineering and technical services to professional driving and specialized sales—are grappling with vacancies that remain open for extended periods. The persistent demand for critical skills forces many firms to overextend their existing workforce or postpone strategic projects. While recruiting talent from abroad is increasingly seen as a necessity, the process is often hampered by procedural delays, strict regulatory constraints, and rising employment costs.

Administrative Complexities And Public Sector Frustration

In addition to labour challenges, businesses express deep frustration with public-sector inefficiencies. Slow administrative procedures, fragmented communication, and a lack of clear guidance have rendered government support only marginally effective. With more than half of respondents regarding public services as minimally helpful, the inefficiencies highlight a system that frequently delays critical decisions and complicates routine business processes.

Deteriorating Payment Discipline

The survey also highlights a significant decline in payment discipline, with difficulties in collecting debts now ranking third among business concerns at 11.8%. Late payments are intensifying cash-flow pressures, extending through supply chains and further straining liquidity. Added to this is a sluggish justice system, where prolonged court delays have left companies financially exposed, often shouldering the burden of non-compliant customers while legal remedies lag behind.

Cost Pressures And Cautious Investment

Rising labour costs, intense domestic competition, and the pressure of lower-cost international markets — particularly in Asia — are driving firms to reconsider their investment priorities. Although nearly 60% of businesses intend to hire in the near term, investment plans in infrastructure, technology, and renewable energy are markedly selective. Overall sentiment remains cautious, with two-thirds of respondents expecting sales to stay level, both domestically and in overseas markets.

Calls For Policy Reforms And Digital Transformation

In an environment strained by excessive bureaucracy and inconsistent policy, businesses advocate for decisive governmental action. Respondents have pointed to the need for reduced business taxation, streamlined administrative processes, and more responsive public services. Furthermore, investment in digital transformation, artificial intelligence tools, and enhanced collaboration with academic and research institutions are seen as critical to boosting competitiveness and fostering innovation.

Conclusion: A Need For Strategic Reforms

The autumn 2025 barometer paints a picture of a resilient business community operating under increasing strain. With entrenched labour shortages, administrative inefficiencies, and deteriorating payment discipline, there is a clear call for targeted reforms. Addressing these structural challenges will be essential for ensuring that Limassol’s businesses not only sustain their current operations but also position themselves for future growth in an increasingly competitive global landscape.

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