Nicosia: Government officials are exploring options to resume the Vasiliko natural gas project, which has faced delays since July 2024. During a session of the House Energy Committee on Tuesday, parliament members questioned the prolonged suspension of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) import terminal project.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Energy Minister Michalis Damianos attended the meeting but refrained from providing specific timelines for the project's completion. He emphasized that the government's primary goal is to initiate new tendering procedures. Damianos assured the committee that he would address specific questions during their next meeting.
The Energy Minister highlighted that public tender procedures have significantly contributed to the delays, describing them as time-consuming. He pointed out that the legal aspects often extend beyond the technical timetable necessary for the project's completion. Damianos also mentioned that this issue similarly affects interim solutions for natural gas supply.
Regarding the floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) 'Promitheas', Damianos noted that the vessel, now owned by the Republic of Cyprus and currently stationed in Malaysia, will receive certification after acquiring a full cargo. He also stated that there is currently no jetty in Cyprus for the vessel's use.