Eight people have died in Cyprus within two weeks from fires or toxic fumes while attempting to keep warm, highlighting what Volt Cyprus describes as a deadly consequence of economic inequality that forces citizens to use unsafe heating methods.
The political party issued a statement on Wednesday identifying “the lack of safe heating means” as the common denominator in these tragedies, which have occurred during the winter season across the island.
“Although investigations into the causes of some incidents are still ongoing, the message is clear: thousands of our fellow citizens are forced to live in dangerous conditions due to financial difficulties,” the statement said.
According to data cited by Volt, more than 130,000 residential units in Cyprus rely on heaters (electric, gas, oil) as their primary heating source, significantly increasing the risk of fire or poisoning from emissions.
The party emphasised that citizen protection is primarily the state’s responsibility and called for urgent action from authorities.
Green Party leader claims warnings ignored for decades
George Perdikis, President of the Movement of Ecologists-Citizens’ Cooperation, said these deaths demonstrate the consequences of long-ignored warnings about energy poverty.
“During my speech in the state budget discussion for 2006, I submitted a proposal for the government to install 5,000 solar roofs annually for free in homes of vulnerable or large families and individuals to address energy poverty,” Perdikis said in a separate statement also released on Wednesday.
He noted that this might have been “the first time the phrase ‘energy poverty’ was heard in Cyprus in political discourse.”
Perdikis criticised what he described as “the complete failure” of successive administrations in managing renewable energy, particularly domestic photovoltaic systems, stating that the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) is now “forced to discontinue their operation.”
“Those who then – and from then until today – disregarded our proposals for addressing energy poverty, today shed crocodile tears and blame each other,” he said.
Immediate measures proposed
Volt Cyprus has urged the government, in cooperation with local authorities, to implement several emergency measures:
- Inspections of properties to verify they have required permits and safe electrical installations
- Market surveillance of electrical appliances to withdraw those failing to meet safety standards
- Prevention and support through social services to ensure no citizen risks their life due to poverty
The Greens have called for the creation of a dedicated state structure where individuals struggling to safely meet their energy needs can turn for immediate assistance.
“Anyone who is cold or at risk of heatstroke should know where to go for immediate help and support. We demand a state that has social sensitivity for everyone,” Perdikis stated.
Statistical evidence of vulnerability
The statement from Volt referenced Eurostat figures showing that in 2022, one in five Cypriots (19.2%) reported being unable to adequately heat their homes.
“These numbers are not just statistics. They are human lives. And there is no excuse for inaction,” the party said.
Volt Cyprus concluded by criticising the president’s pronouncements on improving daily life and enhancing safety for all citizens as “empty and unable to address the real problems threatening the safety and well-being of citizens.”
