Direct Democracy party seeks meeting with President over energy policy

The Direct Democracy party, led by Fidias Panayiotou, has formally requested a meeting with Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides to address concerns regarding the country's electricity sector. On November 2, 2026, the party described the Ministry of Energy’s response to its memorandum as technically inadequate. The party proposes six measures aimed at reducing consumer electricity costs by 20% and demands immediate action on long-term supply, energy storage, and grid infrastructure.

Key concerns include the future of the Dhekelia power plant, where current plans involve retiring 360 MW of base-load units while only installing 80 MW of peak-load turbines, a move the party argues will increase reliance on the Vasilikos station. The organization also highlighted a potential two-year delay in natural gas operations beyond 2029 and uncertainties surrounding the electricity interconnection project. They have called for a clear alternative plan and potential transition exceptions from European institutions.

The memorandum was submitted following a nationwide protest on October 17. While the Ministry of Energy responded on October 27, the party maintains that the reply failed to address specific recommendations, leading them to seek a direct audience with the President to present their technical proposals alongside their experts.