Cyprus' electricity network is facing increased pressure as temperatures climb towards 43C, with grid operators closely monitoring supply and demand amid concerns over system resilience.
Two Dhekelia units remain offline
The Transmission System Operator Cyprus (TSOC) said two generating units at the Dhekelia Power Station remain out of service following separate faults reported on Monday night and Tuesday morning.
According to TSOC official Charis Zavallis, Tuesday's incident led to a temporary power interruption affecting consumers across Cyprus for around 17 minutes as operators worked to stabilise the electricity system.
Available conventional generation capacity fell to 1,194MW, compared with an installed conventional capacity of 1,478MW.
Grid under pressure
Officials say the combination of extreme heat, high electricity demand and reliance on ageing generation units, particularly at Dhekelia, is placing additional strain on the system.
The TSOC is assessing demand forecasts and available capacity on a continuous basis to determine daily generation plans.
EAC on alert
The Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) said it remains on standby to respond to faults across the network.
EAC spokesperson Christina Papadopoulou noted that a fault linked to an underground cable in Engomi on Monday night was repaired and electricity supply restored.
She said high temperatures and increased consumption inevitably place extra stress on the network despite ongoing maintenance and upgrade works.
Energy supply to be discussed at presidential meeting
Electricity adequacy is expected to feature prominently at a meeting on Wednesday involving EAC trade unions, Energy Minister Michalis Damianos, Deputy Minister to the President Irene Piki and EAC Chairman George Petrou.
The discussions follow the suspension earlier this month of planned industrial action by EAC unions after government assurances that solutions would be explored.
Unions seek government decisions
Union representatives say they expect concrete answers from the government on electricity security and long-term energy planning.
Among the issues raised are:
- Electricity generation adequacy.
- The future of Dhekelia power station units.
- Greater EAC participation in renewable energy projects.
- Permission for EAC entities to enter bilateral agreements with private renewable energy producers.
Union officials argue that the measures could improve system security and help reduce electricity costs for households and small businesses.
