Michalis Damianos steps into the “hot seat” of the Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry at one of the most critical moments in its history. Although it is still too early for assessments or official statements, individuals familiar with the new Minister from his service at the Ministry of Health tell Brief that he is expected to place greater emphasis on accelerating legal and regulatory frameworks, strengthening the corporate structure of major projects, and advancing international legal agreements.

With experience in international law firms such as Simmons & Simmons and Hogan Lovells, Cyprus’ new Minister of Energy, Commerce and Industry is called to manage a series of major and sensitive issues directly linked to energy policy, the economy, geopolitical balances, and the legal aspects of cooperation with energy companies. His work will focus primarily on regulatory and legal completion processes and on overseeing agreements with the involved stakeholders, including the transfer of responsibilities to the Transmission System Operator.

First, the management of drilling operations and natural gas fields within Cyprus’ Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and the decision-making process for the optimal method of exploiting these resources, including export and liquefaction options.

Second, the completion of the LNG Terminal, considered the most critical project for energy security and future exports.

Third, ensuring the viability of major interconnection projects such as the Great Sea Interconnector, with particular attention to Cyprus’ legal standing.

Fourth, accelerating the transition to a greener energy model in line with European targets.

Fifth, the development of Renewable Energy Sources and addressing the challenges of the national electricity grid.

Sixth, the management of the electricity sector, including grid stability and electricity pricing.

Seventh, navigating energy issues within the wider context of geopolitical tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean and maintaining regional cooperation.

A particularly important responsibility for the Minister and his Ministry will be their role during Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the EU next month, where the energy agenda and green transition are expected to remain high priorities.

As a lawyer, Mr Damianos is expected to adopt a structured approach to handling the legal outstanding matters and investigations related to his Ministry.

For the LNG project, for example, the legal basis of the dispute and the contractual terms are expected to be reassessed in order to determine the most suitable strategy—whether to pursue the dispute, seek a settlement, or terminate the contract.

In relation to the European Public Prosecutor’s Office (EPPO) investigation into the EuroAsia Interconnector/Great Sea Interconnector, the Minister must ensure full cooperation between the Ministry, the relevant state bodies (including the Transmission System Operator), and the EPPO, providing all required documentation and evidence.

A key aspect of this process is distinguishing the criminal or judicial dimension related to past actions from the continuation of the project that concerns the future and the island’s energy security.

Mr Damianos acquired significant experience in the energy sector during his legal career at international law firms Simmons & Simmons and Hogan Lovells in London, where he specialised in corporate, commercial and energy matters.

In London, he primarily handled mergers and acquisitions in the energy sector, participating in oil and gas transactions— including projects in North Africa, the Middle East, Indonesia and Ukraine. He was also involved in renewable energy deals such as wind farms and waste-to-energy plants.

After returning to Cyprus, he worked at a Nicosia-based law firm before establishing his own practice, Michael Damianos & Co LLC, in 2010. The firm, from which he resigned before assuming ministerial office, provides legal advisory services on energy matters, including support for renewable energy projects, and contributes the Cyprus chapter to international legal publications related to the energy sector.