AKEL party calls for permanent energy measures amid supply concerns in Cyprus

On Friday, the General Secretary of AKEL, Stefanos Stefanou, met with officials from the Cyprus Transmission System Operator to discuss the country's energy status. Stefanou characterized the current state of electricity production as marginal, noting that rising international oil prices are placing significant pressure on domestic costs. The party representative emphasized that temporary relief measures are insufficient and called for long-term solutions, including a permanent reduction of VAT on electricity from 19% to 5%. Additionally, AKEL proposes abolishing double taxation on fuel and withdrawing specific 'green taxes' to ensure energy affordability. Stefanou also highlighted the urgency of addressing supply security, noting that EU mandates require Cyprus to retire key power generation units at Dhekelia and Vasilikos by 2029. He warned that this transition period will exert automatic pressure on the country's ability to meet future demand. The meeting was part of a broader series of consultations intended to help the party formulate credible energy policy proposals.