**AKEL Presses Finance Minister with Eight Questions on Great Sea Interconnector Costs**
*3 September 2026*
In a recent move to clarify the financial implications of the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI), AKEL General Secretary Stefanos Stefanou has submitted a series of eight inquiries to Finance Minister Makis Keravnos. The questions focus on the cost, funding, and overall viability of the ambitious project that aims to establish an electrical link between Cyprus and Greece.
The GSI project has garnered significant attention, especially following the involvement of Meridiam, a global investor in sustainable infrastructure, which has joined the consortium responsible for implementing the interconnector. Stefanou's letter to Keravnos highlights the need for transparency regarding the terms of the agreement between Meridiam and the Independent Power Transmission Operator (IPTO) of Greece.
In previous statements made by Keravnos, including an interview on CyBC radio and a piece in Kathimerini, he indicated that two independent studies had concluded that the GSI project was not viable under its current terms. Stefanou referenced these comments to emphasize the importance of reassessing the project's feasibility, particularly in light of Meridiam's recent participation.
Stefanou's queries cover several critical areas:
1. **Knowledge of Terms**: He seeks confirmation on whether the Finance Ministry is fully informed about the terms of the agreement between IPTO and Meridiam.
2. **Ownership and Control**: Questions were raised regarding who will own the project's assets and maintain control during both the construction and operational phases.
3. **Stakeholding Reconsideration**: Stefanou inquired if Cyprus is reconsidering its potential stake in the GSI's shareholding structure due to these new developments.
4. **Financial Commitments**: He asked whether the agreement between IPTO and Meridiam alters any financial or other commitments Cyprus has previously made to the project.
5. **Viability Studies**: Stefanou requested information on any new or updated studies that indicate the project is now viable.
6. **Impact on Electricity Prices**: He questioned whether there are studies demonstrating that the interconnector would lead to lower electricity prices in Cyprus, including specifics on the expected reduction, timeline, and conditions.
7. **Cost Estimates and Funding Gaps**: The letter also sought clarity on the current estimated final cost and completion date of the project, especially considering delays and unresolved issues, as well as how any funding gaps would be addressed and what share of the costs Cyprus would be responsible for.
8. **Pledged Contributions**: Finally, Stefanou asked whether Cyprus would fulfill its pledge of 125 million euros to the project and under what conditions this would occur.
Stefanou emphasized the urgency of obtaining these answers, arguing that the strategic significance of the GSI necessitates that the government keeps political parties well-informed, especially as they may need to approve significant decisions related to the project.
In his communication, Stefanou acknowledged the GSI's critical role in alleviating Cyprus's energy isolation. However, he stressed that the project must proceed under conditions that ensure a reliable energy supply without creating new dependencies, while also safeguarding public finances and delivering the most affordable electricity possible.
A copy of Stefanou's letter has also been sent to the Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry, Michalis Damianos, indicating the broader governmental interest in the project's development.
As the situation unfolds, stakeholders in Cyprus will be keenly watching for responses from the Finance Ministry and the implications these may have for the future of the GSI and the energy landscape in the region.