LocationsEU-funded Cross-Community Collaboration Powers Energy Efficiency in Cyprus
January 16, 2025
Nicosia, 15th January 2025 – Funded by the European Commission under the EU Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community, the Local Infrastructure Facility (LIF), implemented by UNDP, organized a successful information session on Energy Management Systems (EnMS) for the private sector in Cyprus. The event, designed to promote energy efficiency and sustainability, brought together key stakeholders from both the Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot private sectors.
The EU-funded LIF Project, which supports local areas in managing infrastructure effectively, supports the introduction of EnMS in seven areas of the Turkish Cypriot community as part of the ongoing efforts to improve energy performance and efficiency. Rooted in ISO standards, EnMS offers organizations a structured approach to reducing energy waste, cutting costs, and implementing sustainable practices.
The info session featured expert speakers who shared successful case studies, including Cypriot companies that have achieved ISO 50001 certification for efficient energy management. It also provided a platform for cross-community collaboration, allowing participants to exchange knowledge and explore energy-efficient solutions.
Mr Stefan Simosas, Head of Cooperation of the European Union Program Support Office in Nicosia, stated that access to affordable, reliable and sustainable energy is a global challenge, and of utmost importance for private companies. "Introducing an Energy Management System, a company can improve its competitiveness on the market, while contributing to a sustainable future for all. This is true also for the entire Cyprus, and companies from both communities can cooperate on these important matters. The EU promotes the introduction of these systems for all the institutions, in order to improve energy efficiency and to contribute to Europe’s energy transition" he remarked.
Mr Jakhongir Khaydarov, Head of UNDP Cyprus, stated that energy efficiency is both an environmental and economic imperative, creating cost-saving opportunities and enhancing resilience. "By adopting energy management systems, communities can reduce consumption and drive improvements, whilst collaboration between the Turkish Cypriot and Greek Cypriot private sector is crucial for fostering trust and long-term cooperation. Let’s continue to inspire and empower each other for a more sustainable and resilient Cyprus" he noted.
The event was well attended with a strong participation from businesses eager to learn and adopt energy-efficient technologies and practices.
For further information and media enquiries please contact UNDP at:
European Union
The Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community, based on Council Regulation 389/2006, aims at facilitating the reunification of Cyprus by encouraging the economic development of the Turkish Cypriot community, with particular emphasis on the economic integration of the island, on improving contacts between the two communities and with the EU, and on preparation for the EU body of laws (also referred to as acquis communautaire).
For more information please visit: Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community (europa.eu)
EU Infopoint on Facebook - http://www.abbilgi.eu/en - http://www.abbilgi.eu/tr/
United Nations Development Programme
UNDP aims to contribute and support the peace-building process in Cyprus and to enhance cooperation between the Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriot by implementing a range of confidence building measures.
Get in touch: UNDP Cyprus (@UNDPCY) / Twitter | on Facebook | on Instagram|
More resources: https://www.undp.org/cyprus
