Heating costs soar in mountain villages of Cyprus

As temperatures in the mountainous Troodos region of Cyprus drop to freezing levels, residents of Prodromos have begun utilizing heating systems and fireplaces to cope with the start of the winter season. Local community leader Neofytos Neofytou reported that households are facing severe financial strain due to a significant rise in fuel prices compared to previous years.

Financial data indicates that the cost of an LPG cylinder has doubled, rising from under €10 to between €19 and €20. Similarly, heating oil prices have exceeded €1.50 per liter, up from approximately €1.00. Consequently, the estimated annual heating budget for a typical family has climbed from roughly €3,000 to between €5,000 and €6,000. Neofytou noted that residents are forced to limit heating usage to avoid unsustainable expenses, with many avoiding extended use during the day.

In addition to the surge in market prices, Neofytou expressed dissatisfaction with government heating subsidies. He stated that despite a nominal increase in the allowance, the withdrawal of previous supplementary support has left many beneficiaries in a stagnant financial position. The community currently faces significant challenges in maintaining adequate living conditions as the winter cold intensifies.