Cyprus is continuing its large-scale modernisation of public schools. As part of the "Nearly Zero-Energy Schools" initiative, 25 educational institutions across the island will undergo comprehensive renovation.
The programme has a total budget of €20 million and is jointly funded by the Republic of Cyprus and the European Union through the THALIA 2021–2027 Cohesion Policy Programme. Its main objective is to make schools more modern, comfortable and energy-efficient while reducing electricity costs and minimising their environmental impact.
Twelve Schools Already Completed, Remaining Projects Due by 2028
Renovation work has already been completed at 12 public schools, while construction continues at the remaining 13. The entire programme is expected to be finished in early 2028. The Cyprus Energy Agency is responsible for implementing the project, carrying out comprehensive upgrades to school buildings in accordance with modern, unified standards.
Once completed, the schools will meet the standards for nearly zero-energy buildings (NZEB), one of the key objectives of the European Union's climate policy.
Each school is undergoing a comprehensive upgrade of both its engineering systems and building infrastructure. The main improvements include:
- enhanced thermal insulation;
- installation of modern ventilation systems;
- replacement of lighting with energy-efficient solutions;
- creating a comfortable indoor climate in classrooms;
- reducing overall electricity consumption.
Many projects of this kind also include the installation of solar panels, advanced energy management systems and electricity consumption monitoring equipment, enabling schools to achieve significant savings on operating costs over the long term.
Modern Schools Will Help Children Learn Better
The authorities emphasise that the project is about more than energy savings. Studies show that good ventilation, natural lighting and comfortable classroom temperatures have a direct impact on children's health, concentration and academic performance.
As a result, the renovated schools will become part of a new educational environment, where the buildings themselves contribute to creating better conditions for both learning and teaching. They will also serve as practical examples of sustainable development, helping students develop a greater awareness of energy efficiency and environmental protection.
Cyprus Continues Its Transition to Green Infrastructure
The school modernisation programme forms part of a broader government strategy to improve the energy efficiency of public buildings. Cyprus is gradually upgrading schools, hospitals, government offices and other public infrastructure in order to reduce energy consumption, lower carbon emissions and meet its climate commitments to the European Union.
Once the programme is completed in early 2028, the 25 public schools are expected to become among the most energy-efficient educational facilities in the country. The experience gained from the project will also be used to modernise additional schools across the island.