**Cyprus’ Power Grid Prepared for Summer Demand**
As summer approaches, Cyprus’ electricity grid is reportedly equipped to handle the anticipated surge in demand due to rising temperatures and increased use of air conditioning. Chara Kousiappa, spokeswoman for the Transmission System Operator (TSO), conveyed this assurance on Tuesday, emphasizing that the grid's capacity should suffice, provided there are no unforeseen breakdowns.
On Monday, electricity demand peaked at 1,156 megawatts around 2:30 PM and maintained a high level of 921 megawatts by 8 PM, which Kousiappa described as “relatively high for the evening hours.” She projected that peak demand during the summer could reach between 1,260 megawatts and 1,300 megawatts, while late afternoon demand is expected to range from 1,060 megawatts to 1,090 megawatts. These late afternoon hours are particularly critical, as they coincide with the highest reliance on conventional power generation.
Kousiappa highlighted that the ability to meet this demand hinges on the operational status of power stations. "If there are breakdowns in power stations, a safe prediction cannot be made, as breakdowns are unpredictable," she noted. In the event of significant faults, the TSO may have to implement measures to limit electricity demand during peak times, which could potentially lead to rolling blackouts. However, she reassured the public that, at present, there are no immediate concerns regarding capacity.
The TSO spokeswoman explained that electricity demand tends to escalate during periods of consecutive hot weather, as buildings absorb heat and the use of air conditioning systems intensifies. "We believe that demand will reach higher levels if the hot days continue," she stated.
In terms of renewable energy contributions, Kousiappa reported that during the hottest days of the summer thus far, renewable sources accounted for 70 percent of electricity production for extended periods. In the late afternoons, this figure hovered around 60 percent, with expectations of reaching approximately 65 percent on Monday afternoon. However, she cautioned that the contribution from renewable sources diminishes significantly during the evening and nighttime hours, dropping to around 40 to 50 megawatts of production.
"The critical hours, during which we depend on conventional generation, are the evenings," Kousiappa emphasized, underscoring the importance of maintaining reliable conventional power generation to meet the evening demand.
As summer progresses, the TSO remains vigilant in monitoring electricity consumption patterns and the operational status of power generation facilities, aiming to ensure that Cyprus can navigate the demands of the season without significant disruptions.