Limassol: The contract for the installation of a mobile desalination unit at the Port of Limassol is expected to be signed on Tuesday with the aim of having it operational by January 2026, Deputy Director of Cyprus Water Development Department (WDD), Elena Phinikaridou told Cyprus News Agency.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Phinikaridou mentioned that the works are progressing, with 12 out of the 13 units donated by the United Arab Emirates to the Moni power station currently operational and contributing to the water supply network. She added that one more plant is expected to be functional soon, and another unit is anticipated to arrive in Cyprus by September.
Phinikaridou also addressed the mobile unit in the Garyllis area, noting that its contract was signed on August 4, with a seven-month implementation period. However, the contractor is targeting completion by December to obtain a bonus for early completion.
She highlighted that the Kissonerga unit is already operational, and an additional 1,000 cubic meters per day will be added by the end of August. Production capacity is set to gradually increase to 11,000 cubic meters per day by the end of October.
Based on a Cabinet decision, Phinikaridou noted that the siting process for additional mobile units in Limassol, Larnaca, and Famagusta districts is ongoing. For permanent desalination units, preliminary studies and land acquisition procedures are underway, though these processes are more time-consuming due to higher requirements and costs.
When questioned about the water needs and how they are being met, Phinikaridou explained that each district has different requirements. She stated that Paphos and Limassol’s needs are currently being met, although there was a delay in the delivery of the permanent desalination plant in Kouklia village, initially scheduled for completion by the end of August. She assured that necessary actions are being taken to prevent any water supply cuts in Paphos district, with needs being covered by drilling and additional approved quantities, alongside increased capacity at the Kissonerga mobile unit.