Cypriot taxpayers are losing about €350 million each year. This large cost comes from delays in a natural gas project. The country still uses expensive diesel for electricity. Because of this, Cyprus must buy costly emission allowances. These facts were shared in recent parliament meetings. The project's problems are causing big money losses.
The planned gas terminal in Vasiliko has faced many problems. A Chinese group stopped talks earlier this year. This made the project uncertain. Important parts, like a dock, are not finished. The state gas company, Defa, must start a new search for construction workers. This means finishing the work will take more time.
A special ship, called Prometheas, is ready to work. Defa's head, Giorgos Ashikalis, said the ship has new parts. These parts cost almost €1 million. However, the ship cannot go to Cyprus. This is because the dock at Vasiliko is not ready. The ship cannot be used right now.
The government is thinking about what to do with the Prometheas. They might move the ship to another country for checks. This could help them use it later. They are also looking at renting the ship. However, they need permission from the European Commission. The Commission helped pay for the project.
The money lost is a big worry. The €350 million is for emission allowances. This is because Cyprus uses diesel instead of cleaner gas. This costs a lot of money. It also stops Cyprus from meeting climate goals. Lawmakers are very concerned about the long delays. The Prometheas ship is also a problem. It is ready but cannot be used. The government is still deciding the ship's future.