Islands offered water solution
A number of Cycladic and Dodecanese islands could soon have the opportunity to solve their water problems, according to a plan to build a series of desalination plants that was unveiled by the government yesterday. Most of the islands have to ship in water via tankers, which is a costly venture. Last year, islands spent a total of 13 million euros on transporting water. Under the plans unveiled yesterday, islands will be able to drastically reduce their water bills as, under the tender, costs will be fixed for the first 10 years. «Desalinated water will cost 3 euros per cubic meter whereas islanders are now paying 8 euros,» said Merchant Marine Minister Anastassis Papaligouras. The ministry said that 15 firms are interested in constructing the desalination plants and it is now up to municipalities to find the necessary land. After 10 years, the ownership of the plants will pass to local authorities.
