The Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) got approval for its 2026 budget on Thursday. The budget is for a large amount, €2.55 billion. However, many lawmakers were not happy with it. They talked a lot about Cyprus's energy future. They also discussed the condition of power plants. The budget expects a money shortage. This will be paid for by loans and money the EAC has saved.
Lawmakers used this meeting to talk about problems. They are worried about energy costs and pollution. They also want faster changes to cleaner energy. A big topic was the Dhekelia power plant. The European Union wants it closed. This is because it causes a lot of pollution. However, the plant is still working. This made some lawmakers angry. They asked why Cyprus still uses this plant.
The debate also included new turbines for Dhekelia. This costs €140 million. There have been long delays for these turbines. Promises to update the plant were made years ago. The budget passed with many votes for it. But some lawmakers still disagreed with the EAC's plans.
Lawmakers also talked about other energy issues. They discussed importing natural gas and using it well. They also talked about renewable energy sources. Some MPs remembered the big explosion in 2011. This reminded them that energy systems can be unsafe. They questioned past choices about storing natural gas.
There are worries about future energy supplies. A political leader warned of big problems with electricity. He said there could be power cuts in the summer. This is because the current systems are not enough. They need to act fast to get good and clean energy. The EAC's money situation was also questioned.
The budget was approved. But the disagreements remain. Different opinions show it is hard to agree on an energy plan for Cyprus. Using old, polluting plants is a problem. It is also difficult to use natural gas and renewable energy fully. The Dhekelia plant continuing to work is a big issue. It will likely cause more arguments.