Giannis Pappas: “A Meaningful Extension and Targeted Amendments to the ‘Exoikonomo’ Programmes Are Essential”
Through a parliamentary intervention addressed to the Minister of Environment and Energy, Dodecanese MP for New Democracy, Ioannis K. Pappas, is calling for an immediate and meaningful extension, along with the necessary corrective measures, to ensure the successful completion of the “Exoikonomo 2021,” “Exoikonomo 2023,” “Exoikonomo 2025,” and “Exoikonomo – Business” programmes.
Mr. Pappas points out that, despite the extension already granted until 17 July 2026, significant objective obstacles continue to prevent the timely completion of a large number of projects. Delays in approvals by public authorities, licensing procedures, banking processes, material deliveries, and the shortage of available construction crews are creating major difficulties for beneficiaries and professionals through no fault of their own.
He makes particular reference to island regions, especially the Dodecanese, where these challenges become even greater during the summer season. Increased tourism activity complicates the execution of construction works, while additional approvals from public authorities, such as archaeological services, further prolong project implementation.
At the same time, the MP highlights problems affecting the “Exoikonomo – Business” programme, particularly applications assessed through an Energy Audit. He notes that the different deadlines currently in force create a serious risk of mature investment projects being unfairly excluded, despite applicants having fully complied with the legal framework that was in effect when they submitted their applications.
In his parliamentary submission, Mr. Pappas calls on the Ministry of Environment and Energy to:
- Grant a uniform extension for the completion deadlines of all “Exoikonomo” programmes until 31 August 2026.
- Introduce special transitional and corrective provisions for cases involving objective delays or force majeure.
- Resolve the issues affecting the “Exoikonomo – Business” programme to prevent mature investment projects from being unfairly disqualified.
- Take every necessary initiative to protect beneficiaries and ensure the full absorption of available European funding.
In a statement, Ioannis K. Pappas said:
“The ‘Exoikonomo’ programmes are among the most important initiatives for reducing energy costs, upgrading the energy efficiency of buildings, and supporting the real economy. The State must take into account the objective difficulties faced by citizens, businesses, and the technical sector, particularly in island regions. Granting a meaningful extension until 31 August, combined with targeted corrective measures, will allow mature projects to be completed, protect beneficiaries from unjust exclusions, and ensure the full utilisation of European funds for the benefit of society and the national economy.”
Ioannis K. Pappas
Member of Parliament for the Dodecanese – New Democracy
