The government has intensified its efforts to transform the energy sector of Cyprus, Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry George Papanastasiou said on Thursday, addressing the opening ceremony of the Cyprus Environment Foundation, in Nicosia.

In his address, the Minister said that the government has intensified efforts to transform the energy sector of Cyprus, by revising ia the goals and policies included in the National Energy and Climate Plan.

This new plan, he said, should reflect the EU's increased ambitions stemming from the 'REPowerEU' and 'Fit for 55' reform packages, for a competitive energy system with low greenhouse gas emissions.

The Minister said that important measures and reforms have already been launched, adding that the national Recovery and Resilience Plan "Cyprus _ Tomorrow" provides that 41% of the total funds will be used for green transition.

Moreover, he pointed out that during the current Programming Period 2021-2027, the Ministry of Energy will be announcing grants reaching approximately €350 million.

He noted that the Ministry is following European trends for a rapid transition to Clean Energy and Sustainable Development, while listening to the needs of the business community and making efforts to promote actions and measures that respond to those needs.

Our main concern, he concluded, is to support the businesses that are trying so hard to survive and grow.