Cyprus Boosts Desalination Efforts to Secure Water Amid Growing Drought Risks

The Republic of Cyprus is intensifying its water management strategy by expanding several desalination projects across key districts including Limassol, Larnaca, and Famagusta. This initiative is a proactive response to looming drought conditions anticipated as early as 2026, aiming to protect the island’s vital water reserves and ensure a steady supply for residents and businesses alike.

Critical Water Reserves Highlight Urgency

Data from the Water Development Department (WDD) reveals alarmingly low dam capacities, currently sitting at only 10.8%, down sharply from 25.9% in the previous year. The largest reservoir, Kouris Dam, is nearly depleted at 9.8%. In light of these figures, strict measures are being enforced to curb water wastage, including heavy fines and criminal charges for persistent offenders.

New Desalination Infrastructure to Strengthen Supply

Cyprus currently operates five permanent desalination plants in strategic locations such as Paphos, Episkopi, Vasilikos, Larnaca, and Dhekelia, collectively generating 235,000 cubic metres of desalinated water daily. Additionally, four mobile units supplement this capacity near Moni, Kissonerga, Garyllis, and Limassol Port, expected to add 47,000 cubic metres per day by early 2026.

Upcoming Mobile Units for Summer 2026

• Episkopi (Kourion): Situated near the existing Limassol plant inside the British Bases, this mobile unit will operate under a five-year contract following a tender announced in September 2025.
• Vasilikos (EAC Power Station): Developed in partnership with the Electricity Authority of Cyprus, its tender is planned for November 2025 and will augment supply from the Mari area.
• Famagusta Region (Ayia Napa & Paralimni-Deryneia): Priority is given to Ayia Napa with direct connections to Kokkinochremmos reservoirs, followed by support for tourism-heavy areas like Protaras through a second facility in Paralimni-Deryneia.

Each mobile unit will contribute 10,000 cubic metres daily, with annual operating budgets estimated at around €3 million.

Permanent Plant Plans in Eastern Limassol

To meet growing urban demands, a new permanent desalination plant with a capacity between 60,000 and 80,000 cubic metres daily is planned near the Limassol Sewerage Boards treatment facility. Completion is targeted within five years after thorough site analysis.

Dhekelia Plant Replacement to Modernize Supply

The old Dhekelia desalination unit will be replaced by a modern facility with enhanced capacity ranging from 80,000 to 100,000 cubic metres per day, servicing both the Famagusta and parts of Larnaca districts. Construction will occur on an adjacent site to maintain service continuity.

Environmental and Bureaucratic Expediency Drives Progress

Recognizing the urgency, the Ministry of Agriculture has designated these projects as critical infrastructure. This status allows for expedited environmental and planning approvals, including proposed changes to Forestry Regulations permitting usage of state coastal forests for desalination activities.

Impact on Budget and Water Pricing

The 2026 budget reflects increased investment in water procurement, with a 23% rise to €142.1 million from €116 million in 2025. This increase is largely attributed to prolonged drought conditions and the costs associated with desalination and water recycling. Despite these pressures, desalination capacity in Paphos ensures this region is less vulnerable to shortages compared to others.

Looking Ahead: Water Conservation and Real Estate

With drought risk intensifying, irrigation restrictions are expected in major urban centers like Nicosia, Limassol, Larnaca, and Famagusta. Those interested in investing or relocating might want to prioritize areas like Paphos, where water security is more robust. For those seeking affordable real estate options in these regions, Cheap Houses and Villas for Sale Cyprus offers an extensive portfolio suited for various budgets and preferences.

Navigating property investment during times of environmental uncertainty requires insight into local infrastructure and resource management – areas where INDEX.cy prides itself on delivering comprehensive and unbiased data.