Within the year, the operation of a National Energy Poverty Observatory is promoted, as well as the creation of support mechanisms to support households affected by increased energy prices.
In the context of the green transition, energy security and tackling climate change, the state is promoting actions to ensure affordable electricity costs for consumers.
These actions are combined with the acceleration of the green transition, the removal of the country's energy isolation and the strengthening of the security of energy supply.
The green transition is a key driver for shaping a sustainable and competitive economic model, capable of responding to environmental challenges and ensuring the well-being of future generations.
Targeted measures for the vulnerable
The National Energy Poverty Observatory is part of the development of an integrated governance system for energy poverty. Particular emphasis is placed on the protection of vulnerable groups of the population, through the adoption of targeted measures to deal with the phenomenon.
Both the Observatory and local support mechanisms will be tools to strengthen the identification of vulnerable households and implement targeted and effective measures.
In addition to the specific actions, decisive factors for the gradual reduction of energy costs are the proper functioning of the competitive electricity market and the completion of the necessary infrastructure, such as the natural gas terminal in Vasiliko.
At the same time, efforts are being made to enhance the penetration of RES, through the simplification and acceleration of licensing procedures, as well as the development and utilization of energy storage systems, which will contribute to the integration of RES into the energy mix.
At the same time, it is considered important to strengthen sponsorship schemes for the energy upgrade of homes and businesses, with the aim of reducing energy consumption and increasing energy efficiency.
Zero-emission buses
At the forefront is also the promotion of the green transformation of public transport to achieve climate neutrality, with measures that reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
Among the measures being considered are the replacement of existing fleets with low- and zero-emission vehicles, as well as the implementation of policies for more sustainable modes of transport.
According to the Strategic Fiscal Policy Framework 2027-2029, it is considered important to speed up the implementation of the measures falling under the Sustainable Urban Mobility Plans and the National Energy and Climate Plan, which concern the reduction of pollutants from transport.
The plan envisages that mobility will be based on an efficient, sustainable and interconnected multimodal passenger and freight transport system, with adequate recharging and refuelling infrastructure for zero-emission vehicles and the supply of renewable fuels.
At the same time, the use of smart digital solutions and intelligent transport systems will be sought to support the integration of transport modes into a functional, safe and accessible system, which will facilitate the movement of all users.
Ensuring public health
Another action concerns protection from environmental pressures and risks, with the aim of ensuring public health, quality of life and sustainable development.
The effective implementation of environmental legislation to prevent and limit impacts is considered crucial. In addition, within the framework of the National Civil Protection Mechanism, the strengthening of the role of the Department of Forests and the Fire Service in the prevention and response to forest fires is promoted.
Less waste and drought management
To achieve the objectives of the European Union's Green Deal, effective waste management through a sustainable development model is considered crucial.
Priority is given to the reduction of waste generation and the adoption of practices based on the principles of the circular economy, with the aim of rational use of resources.
The Municipal Waste Management Plan 2022-2028 sets out the policy framework and necessary measures for the gradual shift away from landfilling towards more sustainable forms of management, such as reuse, recycling, and material recovery.
The focus is also on water resources management and addressing water scarcity, which are critical priorities to ensure the country's sustainability and resilience due to the effects of climate change.
The prolonged drought of recent years, combined with increased demand due to socio-economic development and existing infrastructure deficiencies, have led to a significant reduction in water reserves and conditions of increased water pressure.
Green transition and energy security
These actions fall under the green transition, strengthening energy security and tackling climate change, with the aim of shaping a sustainable and resilient development model.
Policies and investments enhance the penetration of renewable energy sources, the development of green technologies and the transition to sustainable production and consumption patterns.
At the same time, emphasis is placed on promoting sustainable mobility, strengthening the circular economy and improving waste management systems, with the aim of reducing greenhouse gas emissions in all sectors of the economy.
It is worth noting that these actions are aligned with the European Green Deal, which aims for climate neutrality.
Priority is the revision of the National Long-Term Strategy for Low-Emission Growth. At the same time, specialized studies and technocratic documentation are used to determine the areas of intervention and the necessary investments.
At the same time, the implementation of the National Strategy for Adaptation to Climate Change is being promoted, with targeted interventions in critical sectors, such as agriculture, tourism, energy, infrastructure, water management, biodiversity, forests, fisheries and aquaculture, public health and coastal areas.
Cyprus is also promoting the implementation of the National Energy and Climate Plan 2021-2030, which sets out the national policy framework to achieve energy and climate goals.
At the same time, the implementation of the National Action Plan for the Circular Economy 2021-2027 and the Municipal Waste Management Plan 2022-2028 strengthens the transition to a more efficient and sustainable production model, through the promotion of reuse, repair and rational resource management.
