AKEL: Energy insecurity and expensive electricity are the results of the failure to construct a Liquefied Natural Gas terminal

2 February 2024, AKEL C.C. Press Office, Nicosia

Yesterday’s debate in the Parliamentary Audit Committee on the issue of a liquefied natural gas terminal once again proved that the previous Anastasiades-DISY government bears a grave responsibility for the erroneous situation with regards the arrival of Natural Gas for the generation of electricity, which the economy and society is paying the cost with the resultant energy insecurity and unaffordable energy prices. The previous government not only failed to do what was necessary to get the project done and exercise the necessary scrutiny, but has shifted tens of millions of euros on the backs of society.

AKEL has been warning for years about the erroneous handling surrounding the project, both by the Anastasiades government and the previous Board of the Natural Gas Public Company (DEFA). Handlings have been made that have today brought us facing an abject failure as to the advent of natural gas for the generation of electricity. It is now clear that the project, after repeated postponements, will not be completed, even in 2024.

In the face of this situation, we call on the current government to realise the gravity of the situation and take immediate action regarding the cost of electricity and the country’s energy security. At the same time, a full and thorough investigation is demanded into all the actions and omissions of those responsible that have led to the current outcome in relation to the terminal.

2.2.2024