The Aphrodite plan
Cyprus is desperate to export gas. But until more is found, piping it to Egypt is now the main idea, says energy minister Yiorgos Lakkotrypis
"The discovery of Zohr," says Cyprus's energy minister, "has completely changed the complexion of the East Mediterranean gas scene, proving the existence of a new play based on carbonates that extend into Cyprus's exclusive economic zone." Only exploration drilling will decide if Cypriots' optimism that a gas bonanza similar to Zohr has fallen into their laps is justified. In the meantime, as they assess bids submitted in July for the three blocks close to Zohr, Yiorgos Lakkotrypis and his team are focusing on Cyprus's sole discovery to date, the 4.5-trillion-cubic-foot Aphrodite field in Block 12. Five years have elapsed since Noble Energy and partners discovered Aphrodite. There has been a
Also in this section
19 January 2026
Newfound optimism is emerging that a dormant exploration frontier could become a strategic energy play and—whisper it quietly—Europe’s next offshore opportunity
16 January 2026
The country’s global energy importance and domestic political fate are interlocked, highlighting its outsized oil and gas powers, and the heightened fallout risk
16 January 2026
The global maritime oil transport sector enters 2026 facing a rare convergence of crude oversupply, record newbuild deliveries and the potential easing of several geopolitical disruptions that have shaped trade flows since 2022
15 January 2026
Rebuilding industry, energy dominance and lower energy costs are key goals that remain at odds in 2026
