Kato Pyrgos goes green as Cyprus’ first eco-community takes root

Kato Pyrgos Tilliria is about to make history as Cyprus’ very first green community , and if all goes to plan, it could become a national model for how outlying areas can live cleaner, greener, and cheaper.

While environmental drills and transition plans are often talked about in theory, the government and local authorities are finally putting boots on the ground in Tilliria. And, according to Kathimerini's Dorita Yiannakou, it's backed by serious funding and technical know-how; they're also working with locals to turn this vision into reality.

So, what’s actually happening?

In simple terms, think solar panels, electric buses, community composting, and a whole lot more.

With €2.2 million in funding from OPAP, the first phase of the project will see the roofs of 100 homes and businesses insulated and fitted with photovoltaic (PV) panels. That means residents will be able to produce their own electricity, slash their power bills, and be less dependent on the national grid.

What’s more, three electric buses will be purchased , with at least some serving as school transport to begin with , and a central green energy storage unit will be built to help stabilize supply and store any excess power the area generates. Even residents who already have panels installed won’t be left out , they can join the new energy community, too.

Local support is strong

This isn’t just a top-down plan being imposed on residents. Authorities recently held public meetings in the community to lay out the roadmap, hear questions, and invite households and businesses to join. So far, interest is strong , around 60 homes and 12 businesses have expressed interest in joining. That’s a solid 70% buy-in from the community already.

Crucially, the entire effort will be legally anchored. A new energy company will be set up, with all local community councils as members. This entity will handle everything from managing the energy produced to overseeing tenders for PV panel installation. The goal? Making Kato Pyrgos a self-sustaining energy producer and a blueprint for more communities like it across Cyprus.

No empty fields of panels

Importantly, authorities want to keep this project green in every sense. That means avoiding open land installations , no fields covered with solar frames. If extra space is needed, public parking areas may be used instead.

And it’s not just about electricity

Kato Pyrgos is also going all-in on other eco-upgrades: a recycling kiosk, modern wastewater system, composting for organic waste, a green point for managing solid waste, maintenance of the dam and irrigation system, and even improvements to the fishing shelter. Add in a water treatment plant and a new irrigation network, and the community’s entire infrastructure is getting a green makeover.

This is about more than just energy savings; it's about building a sustainable future from the ground up. Tilliria is often seen as remote and under-resourced, but now it’s being placed at the heart of Cyprus’ green transition.

And if it works? Other communities could soon follow its lead.