Large hotel groups across Cyprus are seriously looking into installing their own small desalination plants as a way to secure enough water during the island’s scorching, dry summers. With government backing through a 3-million-euro sponsorship scheme, the move could help hotels meet their water needs without putting extra pressure on the country’s already stretched water supply system.
Hotels can apply for subsidies to install small desalination units, either individually or in groups. Grants range from €65,000 to €550,000 depending on the size of the installation, with the government also simplifying the licensing process to make it easier for hotels to get started. The goal is simple: Keep taps flowing without burdening Cyprus’ fragile water infrastructure, especially at a time when the country faces growing threats from droughts and higher temperatures.
Once ordered, the desalination units could be up and running in just three months. But with the busy tourist season kicking off, some hotels worry that construction work could disrupt guests’ stays. As a result, a number of hotels are planning to postpone installations until September, after the summer rush dies down.