Greek Parliament considers water sector reform for Thessaloniki‑Chalkidiki

The Greek Ministry of Environment and Energy has submitted a draft law to the parliament that would obligate the municipal water utilities of Thessaloniki and Chalkidiki to merge into the public water company ΕΥΑΘ. The proposal includes a €160 million investment programme focused on new water sources, network replacement and upgrading of wastewater treatment plants, with desalination projects as a priority.

The bill also calls for the absorption of 43 water bodies in the Athens region into ΕΥΔΑΠ and 25 entities in the Thessaloniki‑Chalkidiki area into ΕΥΑΘ. Public consultation gathered extensive comments from local municipalities and water‑sector employees, and officials warn of possible legal challenges and operational risks if the agencies cannot meet local community needs. The reform is being debated ahead of the upcoming elections and reflects the government's long‑standing plan to centralise water management across Greece.