AKEL on the introduction of Natural Gas in Cyprus
AKEL C.C. Press Office, 25th May 2020, Nicosia
We are following with interest the intense processes over the last few days surrounding the methodology of introducing natural gas in Cyprus. Given that we believe that the long delay due to the Anastasiades-DISY government is already costing the Cypriot consumer millions of Euros, we believe that the introduction of natural gas is now a necessity for the country.
At the same time, we consider that the state and relevant authorities have an obligation to seriouaslytake into account proposals coming from private companies and which promise to supply Cyprus with cheap natural gas in a short period of time.
Both the proposals from Energian, as well as from Norwegian Hoegh are very promising and can operate as alternatives or as complementary of the Natural Gas Public Company (DEFA) process, until the construction of the necessary state infrastructures at Vasiliko. As AKEL, we consider that it is very important for the state to have its own infrastructures, which will regasify the liquefied natural gas or will represent backup infrastructures.
We call on the government, DEFA and all the competent authorities to study each proposal, wherever it may come from, with the following sole criteria:
- Be specific, comprehensive and well-documented
- Lead to cheap natural gas and consequently to a reduction in the price of electricity.
- Lead to reduced pollution and the protection of the environment.
- Move within the framework of legality and transparency.
