Moni: Water production and supply from newly installed desalination units in Moni, received from the United Arab Emirates, is set to commence on July 22, according to Acting Director of the Water Development Department (WDD), George Kazantzis. Kazantzis also mentioned that an additional 2,000 cubic meters of water will be sourced from a unit in Kissonerga in July.
According to Cyprus News Agency, the Moni units possess a daily capacity of 13,000 cubic meters. Kazantzis highlighted that construction of the Kissonerga desalination plant has begun, aimed at providing 2,000 cubic meters per day in July as an immediate supply boost. This initial supply forms part of a larger contract for 10,000 cubic meters, intended to bolster Paphos’ water production during the summer months.
Kazantzis stated that the contractor will soon provide a timeline for the larger units capable of producing 10,000 cubic meters per day. Initial estimates suggest that water production and supply could commence between September and October, with a possibility of early delivery before December.
In terms of broader water management, Kazantzis noted that an appeal against the desalination contract award to Garillis was rejected, enabling the production of 10,000 cubic meters per day. If progress proceeds smoothly, the project aims to enhance water balance by December 2025 or January 2026.
Regarding another desalination plant at the port of Limassol for an additional 10,000 cubic meters per day, Kazantzis reported that the tender process is complete, with the highest bidder selected. The project is expected to finish within four months, barring any delays from appeals, and should be operational by 2025.
Kazantzis acknowledged ongoing challenges in water management, noting that despite the difficult situation since the year’s start, the original scenarios remain unchanged and are regularly monitored. While dams are depleting, the current projections indicate no major issues for 2025. However, concerns remain about ensuring water sufficiency for 2026, irrespective of rainfall next winter.
Kazantzis also remarked on the more challenging situation regarding irrigation, stating that approved quantities for 2025 are being maintained. The availability of water for 2026 will be contingent upon rainfall and dam inflows, he explained.