Greece is implementing an ambitious plan to improve water supply and quality across its most remote and smallest islands, with 103 projects now underway. The initiative, led by the Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy and the General Secretariat for the Aegean and Island Policy, targets areas facing chronic water shortages.
Funded with more than €9 million from the Public Investment Program as part of the 2025 Special Drought Action Plan, the projects will support 61 island municipalities and water utilities. An additional €20 million has been approved for regions with urgent needs, in cooperation with the Ministry of Environment and Energy.
A key element of the programme is the fast-track licensing of small desalination units. So far, 35 new units have been approved for over 27 islands, significantly strengthening their water networks.
The General Secretariat is also providing technical support to small island municipalities, managing tender processes to avoid delays, and hiring technical consultants for critical water projects. In some islands — including Kastellorizo, Leipsoi, Kimolos, the Diapontia Islands, Gavdos, Agios Efstratios, and the Panormitis Monastery on Symi — it acts as the contracting authority.
The government is also working on standardised specifications, unified cost frameworks for desalination projects, and support measures for municipalities with limited resources.
Since 2019, more than 400 water-related projects have been funded on 78 islands, with a total budget exceeding €60 million, focusing on the smallest and most isolated communities.
“With speed, cooperation, and targeted actions, we are implementing a comprehensive plan to ensure water adequacy and quality for our islands,” said Minister Vassilis Kikilias. “These 103 interventions will improve water conditions, upgrade residents’ quality of life, and support island sustainability — a key national advantage.”
Deputy Minister Stefanos Gkikas added that ongoing visits to islands and close collaboration with local authorities ensure that real needs are met: “With over 100 interventions this year alone, we are helping islanders tackle water scarcity in a meaningful way.”
Source: tovima.com
