Newsroom
Cyprus has been officially called out by the European Commission for failing to meet key environmental obligations, with infringement procedures now underway over gaps in both energy and water legislation.
The Commission highlighted Cyprus, along with Greece, France, Italy, Hungary, Malta, Poland and Portugal, for not fully incorporating strengthened rules for promoting renewable energy sources. These rules, set out in the EU’s 2023 Renewable Energy Directive, aim to speed up the use of clean energy across sectors like heating, transport, buildings and industry.
Despite a deadline of May 21, 2025, for full implementation, Cyprus has yet to notify the EU that it has fully transposed the new rules into national law. The Commission warned that, unless the country acts within two months, the case could be referred to the Court of Justice of the European Union, potentially resulting in financial penalties.
In parallel, Cyprus has also been reprimanded for failing to properly implement the Water Framework Directive. The EU notes that the country is not carrying out mandatory periodic reviews of water permits, a crucial step for ensuring rivers, lakes and other water bodies meet European quality standards. While Cyprus acknowledged the need to update its legislation after a formal notice in November 2024, no changes have yet been adopted.
The Commission stressed that proper implementation of both directives is critical not only for environmental protection and public health, but also for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening energy security, and promoting sustainable water management.
Under the infringement procedure framework, Cyprus now has two months to respond and address the shortcomings or risk further action in the EU’s courts.
The dual warnings serve as a reminder of the EU’s tightening oversight on environmental standards, from clean energy targets to water quality measures, and emphasizes the urgency for member states to comply.
