Gas stations in Cyprus will now be able to install and operate electric vehicle (EV) charging points following unanimous approval of the relevant regulations by the House of Representatives.

The adoption of these regulations is deemed essential for promoting electromobility in Cyprus, with the ultimate goal of facilitating a green transition.

During the discussion, AKEL MP Aristos Damianou mentioned that Cyprus "did not act as foresighted" once again, as incentives for electric cars were introduced, but the charging infrastructure remains insufficient. These regulations, he said, aim to assist the public and should be implemented as soon as possible.

Charalambos Theopemptou, MP of the Greens, lauded the development, noting that it's the first time entities other than the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) will sell electricity, as citizens will pay the gas stations for the power used to charge their vehicles.

He also reminded that a law passed two years ago mandates establishments with more than 20 parking spaces to install EV chargers by 2025. Efforts are also being made for the House of Representatives to install two chargers outside its building. Additionally, he urged the government to include in the electrical installation regulations the processes for installing car chargers.

DIKO MP Christos Senekkis commented that this is an important step towards giving citizens confidence in purchasing electric vehicles, aiming for a green transition. However, he pointed out that a true green transition is achieved mainly through energy production from Renewable Energy Sources (RES), which is not yet assured, as most energy for car chargers will come from EAC's mazut-powered production. He added that combined incentives for electromobility and RES energy production are necessary.