MP Zeybek submits parliamentary inquiry on CO2 storage project in Prinos
A group of six MPs from the New Left party, led by Xanthi MP Hüseyin Zeybek, have submitted a parliamentary question regarding the planned carbon dioxide (CO₂) storage project in the offshore area of Prinos, Thasos. The initiative, spearheaded by the multinational company Energean PLC, aims to implement Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) technology, initially storing 1 million tons of CO₂ annually, with plans to increase this to 3 million tons per year.
Concerns Over Lack of Public Consultation
The project has sparked significant unrest among local communities in Thasos and Kavala due to the absence of consultation or information from the company or the Greek government. Residents are demanding access to scientific data on the environmental and economic risks, particularly as CCS technology remains experimental in some countries and outright banned in others.
The MPs emphasize the proximity of the storage site to Thasos' coastline, a major tourist destination attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors annually. They argue that such a project could negatively impact tourism and fishing industries, two pillars of the local economy.
Key Questions to the Government
The MPs are calling for answers from the responsible minister on the following issues:
- Why was Prinos chosen as the CO₂ storage site, especially given its proximity to the Thasos coastline? What safety measures are in place?
- Why was there no public consultation, and why have local communities remained uninformed about the project?
- What environmental and socio-economic consequences has the government considered, particularly for fisheries and tourism?
- Does Energean have sufficient expertise in CCS technology? Given the region's seismic activity, is there a risk of CO₂ leakage?
The issue has gained traction among local stakeholders, who demand transparency and thorough risk assessment before any further steps are taken.
