Filenews 26 March 2025
An extraordinary state aid of €8 million was approved on Tuesday by the Council of Ministers for projects to reduce losses in the water supply networks, as announced by the Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment, Dr. Maria Panagiotou, after the meeting of the House.
The aid will be allocated to Provincial Local Government Organizations (NEAs) and Communities, with the aim of repairing outdated networks, where water losses are estimated at 35% to 40%. The amount will be drawn mainly from European funds.
Aid for remote communities
The Ministry also approved an annual provision of €1 million for the three-year period 2025-2027 for the implementation of similar projects in communities outside the competence of the EDAs, with the aim of enhancing water supply in remote areas.
Sponsorship scheme of €3 million for private desalination in hotels
As part of the measures against water scarcity, a €3 million grant scheme was approved for the installation of small desalination plants in hotel units, in order to cover water supply needs without burdening government infrastructure.
The program will have a two-year duration and is part of the policy of promoting decentralized water self-sufficiency solutions for tourism and agricultural units.
Simplifying licensing for small units
A simplified licensing framework for desalination plants with a capacity of up to 1,500 cubic meters, concerning hotels, local authorities and agricultural units, was also approved. The approval of licensing and financing, according to the Minister, will be completed within a week.
Ms. Panayiotou invited local authorities interested to contact the Ministry in order to benefit from the relevant funding.
Focus on sustainable water management
The Minister pointed out that the decisions are part of the national strategy for water management, in a period of increased pressures from the climate crisis, and are added:
- the National Investment Plan for Water Projects, amounting to more than €1.2 billion,
- and the 28-action programme against water scarcity.
The government, he concluded, is investing in solutions with a measurable footprint, supporting local infrastructure and strengthening the country's water security.
