Promoting sustainable energy practices in Turkish Cypriot local communities

November 7, 2024
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Nicosia, 7 November 2024 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has launched a new EU-funded initiative aimed at promoting sustainable energy practices in Turkish Cypriot local communities. This project will support the communities of Nicosia, Kyrenia, Morphou/Güzelyurt, Lefka/Lefke, Kioneli/Gonyeli, Dikomo/Dikmen, Kythrea/Değirmenlik and the entire Turkish Cypriot community in adopting and implementing a tailored Energy Management System (EnMS). The initiative is funded by the European Union under the Local Infrastructure Facility.

The main objective of this initiative is to provide the communities with the necessary tools and knowledge to manage energy resources more efficiently. This includes conducting an initial assessment, designing plans to increase energy efficiency, putting these plans into action, and monitoring the outcomes; bringing about a change in how communities manage their resources. Typical measures could include behavioural changes of personnel and users; change of use pattern of equipment and facilities; and the installation of more efficient technologies in lighting, heating and cooling.

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Mr Michel Vedrenne Gutierrez, Head of Section from the Cyprus Settlement Support Unit, DG REFORM of the European Commission, stated that “making an efficient use of the energy we consume is the first step for green transition. Efficient and rational use of energy will improve quality of services while achieving relevant financial savings and reducing the environmental impact of human activities. The energy sector is one of the most promising for promoting collaboration and mutual learning between communities in Cyprus.”

"Energy efficiency is not just about reducing costs; it’s about creating a sustainable future for everyone. By equipping local communities with the tools and knowledge they need, we empower them to take control of their energy usage and contribute to a greener, more sustainable Cyprus", said Jakhongir Khaydarov, the Head of Office for UNDP Cyprus, at the occasion of the launch of the new initiative.

In addition to the direct support provided to the seven communities, the project will also host a series of information sessions on energy management systems, which will be open to all local communities and interested stakeholders in the Turkish Cypriot community, including engineers, technical chambers, educational establishments and the business communities.

The contract amounts to EUR 245,000 and will be implemented between 1 October 2024 and 30 June 2026.

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For further information and media enquiries please contact UNDP at: 

registry.cy@undp.org 

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)
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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.

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