Brussels: The European Commission has announced the initiation of two infringement procedures against Cyprus, focusing on the nation’s failure to periodically review water permits and submit its updated National Energy and Climate Plan. This decision is a part of the Commission’s regular package of infringement actions released in November.
According to Cyprus News Agency, formal notices have been dispatched to both Cyprus and Belgium concerning water management, and to Cyprus along with 12 other EU member states regarding national energy and climate plans. The issuance of these formal notices marks the initial phase of the infringement process, which could potentially escalate to the Court of Justice of the EU if the involved nations do not comply.
The European Commission’s infringement procedure begins with a formal notice and can advance to a reasoned opinion if the member state fails to address the issues. Although most cases are resolved without reaching the Court of Justice, the Commission’s November
package includes 47 cases that have been closed, including four related to Cyprus.
The Water Framework Directive mandates EU member states to review water permits regularly as part of their river basin management plans. These plans aim to maintain the good status of water bodies across Europe. Cyprus’s national legislation, however, lacks the necessary provision for periodic review as required by this directive. Cyprus and Belgium now have a two-month window to respond to the Commission’s notice.
In terms of national energy and climate plans, 13 member states, including Cyprus, have not submitted their final updated plans as required by the Regulation on the Governance of the Energy Union and Climate Action. These plans are critical for outlining strategies to meet EU targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving energy efficiency. The Commission has set a two-month deadline for responses from these countries, after which further legal action may be taken if necessary.