Action now needed on high energy costs
Statement by Vakis Charalambous, Head of AKEL’s Energy Policy
1 September 2026, AKEL C.C. Press Office, Nicosia
The latest sharp rises in fuel prices, combined with exorbitantly high electricity costs, are putting even greater strain on households and businesses.
The situation looks set to become even more difficult as we are approaching winter and taking into account the increased demand for electricity and heating oil, the new European levies on fuel, and given the failures and delays in major energy projects, the cost of which is being borne by society.
The Government must, at long last, assume political responsibility and take immediate relief measures.
AKEL calls for the following measures to be taken immediately: At a time when the state is collecting increased revenue from taxes and pollution levies, part of this must be returned to society.
- Extend the reduction in excise duty on fuel.
- Step up checks and full transparency in the setting of fuel prices.
- No new ‘green’ taxes.
- End the double taxation on fuel.
- Permanent reduction in VAT on electricity from 19 per cent to 5 per cent.
- Expand social tariffs for electricity with the automatic enrolment of eligible households.
- Substantive plans for energy efficiency upgrades and savings, prioritising the vulnerable groups of the population.
Society does not need any more excuses or announcements. It needs action now.
