Cyprus drafts new criteria for identifying energy-poor households

The Cyprus Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry has opened a public consultation on a draft decree aimed at establishing a formal, objective definition of energy poverty. The initiative, led by Minister Michalis Damianou, seeks to harmonize national legislation with EU Directive 2023/1791 and ensure that government support measures are directed toward the most vulnerable populations. The consultation period remains open for public submissions until September 11, 2026.

Under the proposed framework, energy-poor households are identified as those containing individuals who receive public assistance, the Guaranteed Minimum Income, low-pensioner allowances, or single-parent and child benefits, subject to specific gross annual income thresholds. For instance, families with one dependent child qualify if their income does not exceed €21,060 for single-parent support or €28,080 for child benefits, with tiered increases for additional dependents. This move builds upon existing support systems, such as the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) special tariff 08 and current grants for energy efficiency upgrades and photovoltaic installations. The decree aims to replace or refine these ad-hoc measures to ensure consistent protection, including the prohibition of electricity supply disconnections for vulnerable consumers with verified health needs.