**Larnaca District Authority Secures Millions in EU Funding for Green and Digital Projects**
The Larnaca district government (EOA) has announced a significant achievement in securing over €39 million in European Union funding aimed at enhancing infrastructure, water management, and facilitating the district's transition towards greener and more digital solutions. This funding is part of ongoing efforts to modernize services and promote environmental sustainability within the district.
Since its inception, the EOA has effectively leveraged European funding to improve the quality of life for residents by building resilient infrastructure and modernizing services. The recent funding includes approximately €11 million sourced from Cyprus’ Recovery and Resilience Plan, which will be allocated to various water supply and sewerage projects. Key initiatives funded under this plan include the installation of 27,500 smart water meters throughout Larnaca, the construction of a new 12,000 cubic metre water reservoir designed to ensure 24-hour water security, and a comprehensive digital transformation of water and sewerage services.
As part of the digital upgrade, the EOA is collaborating with the University of Cyprus to develop the Zenon drinking and wastewater support system. This initiative aims to enhance the efficiency and reliability of water management practices in the district. Additional projects focus on safeguarding the sewerage network from damage caused by hydrogen sulphide and installing photovoltaic systems to promote energy independence.
In addition to the Recovery and Resilience Plan funding, the authority has secured over €27 million from the Thalia 2021 to 2027 Cohesion Policy Programme, specifically earmarked for Phase C of the Larnaca Sewerage System. Furthermore, an allocation of €1.2 million has been designated for flood alleviation projects in the areas of Ayios Lazaros and Okkoular, addressing critical infrastructure needs in these communities.
Beyond infrastructure improvements, the Larnaca EOA is actively participating in various European research and innovation programs aimed at promoting environmental sustainability. Notable projects include the Freshness project, which has received €250,000 in funding, the Sludge2Energy project with €622,500 allocated, and the Regenious project, which has secured €750,000. These initiatives focus on a range of objectives, including enhancing energy efficiency, sustainable water management, converting sewage sludge into energy and biochar, and developing technologies that support a circular economy.
The authority’s engagement in these projects underscores its long-term commitment to innovation and environmental protection. To further bolster these efforts, the EOA has established partnerships with several academic and research institutions, including the University of Cyprus, the Cyprus University of Technology, and the University of the Aegean, among others. Collaborations with multiple water and sewerage organizations across Cyprus and Greece also play a crucial role in advancing the district’s sustainability goals.
The successful acquisition of EU funding represents a pivotal step for the Larnaca district in its ongoing mission to enhance infrastructure and promote environmental sustainability. As these projects progress, the EOA aims to not only improve the quality of services provided to residents but also to set a precedent for future initiatives that align with the broader goals of the European Union regarding green and digital transitions.