In a major push to combat water scarcity, especially in remote and small Greek islands, the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy, along with the General Secretariat for the Aegean and Island Policy, has launched 103 infrastructure projects focusing on water adequacy and desalination. These initiatives span 61 island municipalities and are funded with €9,073,448 through the Public Investment Program, under the 2025 Special Action Plan for Drought Management.
Additional funding of €20 million has also been approved in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and Energy to support regions facing urgent water needs.
A key element of the plan is the streamlining of licensing procedures for small-scale desalination units through fast-track processes. Already, 35 new units have been licensed on over 27 islands, significantly boosting local water supply networks.
The General Secretariat is also offering technical support to small island municipalities, handling tender processes to avoid delays. For particularly isolated areas like Kastellorizo (Megisti), Lipsi, Kimolos, the Diapontia Islands, Gavdos, Agios Efstratios, and the Panormitis Monastery on Symi, the Secretariat acts as the awarding authority and has funded the hiring of technical consultants in over 15 municipalities for critical water supply projects.
Furthermore, a joint effort with the Ministries of Environment & Energy, Interior, and Finance is underway to develop standard technical documentation, set unified desalination project pricing, and support under-resourced municipalities.
Under the National Water Plan and the coordination of Deputy Prime Minister Kostis Hatzidakis, the Ministry contributes its expertise to ensure that “islandness” remains a core criterion in water resource policy planning.
Since 2019, the Ministry and the General Secretariat have funded more than 400 projects across 78 islands, with a total budget exceeding €60 million, placing special emphasis on the most remote and smallest island communities.
“Through speed, collaboration, and strategic interventions, we are implementing a comprehensive plan to ensure water sufficiency and quality across our islands,” said Minister of Shipping and Island Policy, Vassilis Kikilias. “With the 103 actions taking place this year in 61 municipalities and the allocation of over €9 million, we are improving water supply conditions, enhancing quality of life, and supporting island communities – a unique asset of our nation.”
Deputy Minister Stefanos Gikas added: “Through continuous visits and close contact with MPs, local authorities, chambers, and communities, we are identifying problems and providing real solutions – especially now in the face of drought. The mapping of island needs and this year’s 100+ interventions reflect our commitment to protecting and promoting island life as a central government priority.”
Source: pagenews.gr