Cyprus' parliamentary Energy Committee visited the Vasilikos liquefied natural gas import terminal on Tuesday, seeking detailed updates on delays, project costs and when the long-awaited facility will become operational.
Committee chairman Nikos Georgiou said lawmakers wanted first-hand information on the project's progress, the next stages of development and, above all, clear answers on timelines, the final cost and the exact date the terminal will enter service.
Georgiou described the project as a major strategic investment for Cyprus, saying it was directly linked to the country's energy supply, energy security, electricity prices and economic competitiveness.
The visit was attended by representatives of the Energy Ministry, the Public Natural Gas Company (DEFA), the Natural Gas Infrastructure Company (ETYFA) and the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC).
Following the site inspection, committee members visited the EAC's Vasilikos power station, where they met the authority's board and chief executive.
Electricity supply SOS
Discussions focused on the EAC's strategic planning and future energy needs, with Georgiou warning that electricity adequacy in Cyprus was under pressure and saying all stakeholders needed to coordinate their efforts.
"The adequacy of electricity in our country is sending out an SOS, which is why everyone needs to coordinate," Georgiou said, adding that the Energy Committee would continue to monitor developments.
He linked efforts to reduce electricity costs to the completion of the Vasilikos project, decisions concerning the electricity interconnector and other energy initiatives.
Asked about ETYFA's tender process, whose first phase concluded on 9 September, and whether any candidates had emerged, Georgiou said the purpose of the visit was to obtain further information on the matter.
He added that an announcement regarding interested bidders was expected, noting that ETYFA had already indicated it may extend the tender deadline following requests from international firms.
Source: CNA
