Energy ministry closes housing upgrade subsidy scheme due to overwhelming demand

The Cypriot Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry has officially closed applications for the "Save-Upgrade at Home" grant scheme after initial and supplementary funds were exhausted. The program, which opened on October 21, 2026, saw an unprecedented level of interest, with the initial budget of €20 million being largely committed within the first day of submissions. In response to the high demand, the ministry injected an additional €7.5 million, bringing the total budget to €27.5 million, yet this amount was also quickly fully allocated.

Despite the closure, the ministry is granting 166 applicants, who had initiated their applications in the electronic system before the cutoff, a final opportunity to submit their documents. These will be classified as standby applications and will only be considered if further savings occur within the budget. Minister Michalis Damianou expressed optimism that the final expenditure may be lower than currently reserved amounts, potentially allowing for the coverage of standby applicants. Furthermore, the government announced a new specialized program set for February 1, 2027, aimed specifically at energy-vulnerable citizens who do not benefit from general tax reforms.