Greece Reaffirms Commitment to Great Sea Interconnector Amid Rising Geopolitical Tensions

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

August 26, 2025

Steadfast Progress on a Pan-European Initiative

Greek Foreign Minister Giorgos Gerapetritis unequivocally declared on Monday that the Great Sea Interconnector project will proceed without interruption. Designed to link the energy grids of Greece, Cyprus, and Israel, this ambitious endeavor is firmly entrenched within the framework of a broader European initiative, as confirmed during his dialogue on television with channel Open.

Unyielding Assurance Amid Regional Concerns

Addressing questions about potential international maritime notifications (Navtex) in advance of autumn surveys, the minister dismissed any anticipated complications, stating that there is “absolutely no reason for concern.” The Greek administration remains committed to continuity, emphasizing that surveys will persist as scheduled.

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Defending Sovereign Rights and Strategic Interests

Gerapetritis underscored that the establishment of electrical cables is safeguarded under international law—a principle that guarantees its protection against any interference. He warned that any attempt by Turkey, which aspires to European Union membership, to derail a pan-European project would have significant consequences. In a firm tone, he attested that Greece is fully prepared to exercise all sovereign rights in its territorial waters, including deploying necessary measures if Turkish naval forces encroach upon areas designated for sea-bed surveys and cable laying.

Enhancing Geopolitical Position in the Mediterranean

The minister’s remarks come as part of a broader policy aimed at elevating Greece’s geopolitical standing in the Mediterranean region. With strengthened alliances and a strategic outlook, Gerapetritis noted that Greece is in a more advantageous position now than it was two years prior, in spite of persistent regional challenges.

Context and Contemporary Challenges

These comments follow recent assertions made by Cypriot Finance Minister Makis Keravnos, who cited studies suggesting that the interconnector project faces sustainability hurdles due to geopolitical risks—specifically attributing the delays in seabed surveys to Turkish actions. Earlier reports pointed to possible plans for an alternative route via the Dodecanese islands, although Greek officials have consistently refuted these claims.

Forward-Looking Strategy

In the face of technical, fiscal, and geopolitical uncertainties, Greece continues to demonstrate resolve in advancing the project. Significant investments, including contracts with French technology firm Nexans for submarine cable manufacturing, underscore the commitment to ensuring that critical energy infrastructure projects are not thwarted by external pressures.

Ultimately, the minister’s assurances reflect a broader commitment to not only overcoming immediate geopolitical obstacles but also reinforcing Greece’s role as a key player in the future of European energy security.

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Limassol Port Electrification Awaits Grid Connection And EU Funding

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

October 14, 2026

Plans to equip Limassol port with shore-side electricity are advancing at the technical level, but unresolved administrative procedures, a pending grid connection and the need to secure European funding continue to delay implementation.

The proposed shore-power system, also known as cold ironing, would allow vessels to connect to electricity while berthed, reducing reliance on onboard engines and cutting emissions and noise in the surrounding area.

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Technical Studies Near Completion

Transport Minister Evi Tsolaki said work is progressing through the EU-backed DecarbonLim programme, which is preparing the technical assessment and feasibility study required before construction can begin. The ministry is seeking regular updates from the Cyprus Ports Authority on the studies’ completion timetable.

The initiative also involves Frederick University, Eurogate Container Terminal Limassol, DP World Limassol, the Electricity Authority of Cyprus, the Cyprus Transmission System Operator and Limassol Municipality.

Grid Connection Remains A Key Hurdle

Despite progress on the studies, construction cannot proceed until the project secures a connection to the national transmission network.

Tsolaki said the ministry has requested land from the Department of Lands and Surveys for an electricity substation. Once the site is allocated, the relevant applications can be submitted to the Cyprus Transmission System Operator to advance the grid-connection process.

Until these steps are completed, the project will remain in the preparatory phase, even if the technical studies are finalised.

European Funding Adds Urgency

The feasibility work under DecarbonLim will support an application for construction financing, Tsolaki said. A competitive European funding call is currently open, and the ministry intends to submit an application within the required timeframe.

The funding window has raised concerns in parliament. MP Fotini Tsiridou warned that further delays could undermine Cyprus’ chances of securing EU support, noting that similar port electrification projects elsewhere in the bloc have already received funding.

Speaking to Entrepreneurial Limassol, published by the Limassol Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Tsiridou said she had observed some progress but had yet to receive a formal response to her parliamentary question.

Environmental And Commercial Benefits

Tsiridou argued that shore-side electricity would deliver benefits beyond emissions reductions, including less noise and air pollution for residents near the port.

“Our port should not be disconnected from the rest of the city,” she said, describing shore-power infrastructure as both a necessity and a European obligation.

Across Europe, port electrification is increasingly linked to environmental performance and competitiveness. By allowing compatible vessels to switch off auxiliary engines while docked, shore-power systems can reduce local emissions and noise while supporting wider decarbonisation goals.

Construction Timetable Still Unclear

The Cyprus Ports Authority signed a contract with DBA S.p.A. in July 2025 for a comprehensive study of the system’s technical, economic and environmental requirements. The work was intended to establish the basis for installation and identify any necessary port infrastructure upgrades.

More than a year later, key steps concerning land allocation, grid connection and financing remain unresolved. No timetable has been announced for completing these procedures or submitting the final funding application.

Limassol’s shore-power project therefore remains between planning and implementation. Its next milestones are securing the substation site, progressing the transmission-network application and obtaining construction financing. Until these are in place, the port’s transition to shore-side electricity cannot move into the construction phase.

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