Two more desalination plants under consideration
Fact: Construction of two new desalination plants in Limassol and Famagusta is under review due to prevailing drought conditions and water shortage fears.
vasilikos
‘, Light on the horizon for Vasiliko’
Energy Minister George Papanastasiou stated that there is progress in the construction of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal in Vasiliko, with consultations ongoing between Cyprus’ natural gas infrastructure company and the Chinese state-owned company CPP Metron. The terminal is crucial for importing LNG to reduce electricity costs in the Republic of Cyprus. President Nikos Christodoulides denied discussions of a “velvet divorce” with CPP over the terminal, emphasizing that efforts are continuing.
Cypriot government and Chinese firm nearing settlement
The Cypriot Government and Chinese state-owned company CPP are working towards a velvet divorce, focusing on resolving the remaining works for the terminal at Vasilikos. The Chinese side has made financial demands for the delivery of the Floating Storage and Regasification Unit (FSRU) to its owner, ETYFA, which could amount to tens of millions of euros in addition to the funds already spent. Intensive consultations are expected to find a compromise exclusively for the FSRU, with legal advisors seeking a settlement based on the arbitrator’s decision. Once a settlement is reached for the FSRU, an agreement for the dissolution of cooperation regarding projects in Vasilikos is expected. Financial differences will be resolved through arbitration, with ETYFA seeking another contractor to complete the jetty and other projects on land.
LNG import blues
The LNG import project at Vasilikos in Cyprus has faced recurring problems and delays. The project, which aims to switch power generation from oil to natural gas, could reduce electricity prices by one-third, resulting in annual cost savings close to €300-€400 million. The project has faced issues due to a badly conducted tender, unclear terms of reference, and a contractor with no experience in such projects. The current contractor, CPP, has claimed additional costs and the project is not progressing as expected. The government is considering various options to complete the project, including finding a way to move forward with the present contractor, seeking independent expert advice, and exploring alternative plans if necessary.
Cyprus LNG project faces stalemate as CPP hardens stance
China Petroleum Pipeline Engineering (CPP) is seeking a financial settlement and termination of its involvement in the Vasilikos LNG terminal project in Cyprus. CPP may link the settlement to the delivery of the Floating Storage and Regasification Unit (FSRU) vessel named “Prometheus.” There are concerns that CPP withholding the FSRU could undermine previous assurances about the vessel’s readiness and certification. Technical interventions and modifications estimated at €10-15 million are needed for the FSRU to operate in Vasilikos. CPP has also requested an additional €200 million in a separate London arbitration. The situation could potentially escalate into a “hostage situation” involving the FSRU if CPP demands more payment for its delivery.
CPP case: the Chinese ambassador has been summoned to the Presidential Palace on Monday
The Cyprus-China relations are being tested due to a dispute over a gas regasification terminal project in Vasilikos. The Chinese state-owned company CPP is reluctant to complete the project, demanding additional financial compensation of EUR 200 million. The Cypriot side argues that CPP’s objections to the contract terms are either in bad faith or due to financial inability. The collapse of cooperation with CPP would result in significant financial costs for Cyprus and delay the introduction of natural gas for cheaper electricity generation. The situation is further complicated by the fact that a floating gas regasification unit remains in Shanghai due to berthing modifications required by Lloyd’s Register. If the terminal project is frozen, Cyprus may face significant financial consequences, with responsibility shared between the Cypriot government and the Chinese state-owned company CPP.
President for Vasilikos: The state cannot be blackmailed; there is a plan B but I don’t want to get to that point
President Nikos Christodoulides is in contact with the company and various EU and non-EU member states to create prospects for the resumption of talks. The Vasilikos terminal project has three phases, with progress varying in each. The President will meet with the Ambassador of China to discuss the project, emphasizing the need for solutions to be found with goodwill. A plan B exists, but the government intends to proceed with the contract obligations.