**Electricity Demand Easing as Temperatures Fall, Grid Operator Reports**
Electricity demand in Cyprus has begun to decline as temperatures moderate, according to the Cyprus Transmission System Operator (TSO). Charis Zavallis, the assistant director of the TSO’s National Energy Control Centre, reported that the current demand is being fully met and is expected to decrease further in the coming days.
Zavallis indicated that the anticipated temperatures would hover around 39 degrees Celsius, leading to a projected midday demand of approximately 1,200 megawatts (MW). He noted that this level of demand poses no issues for the electricity supply, particularly due to the substantial contribution from photovoltaic generation. Afternoon demand is expected to range between 950MW and 1,000MW, which the TSO is well-equipped to handle.
With 1,251MW of conventional generation capacity available, Zavallis assured that the electricity system is adequately supported both during daytime and nighttime hours. He emphasized that there are reserves in place to address any unforeseen faults that may arise in the system.
The peak electricity demand recorded this year occurred on July 23, when it reached 1,372MW at 2:45 PM, before dropping to 1,099MW by 8 PM. Zavallis expressed confidence that it is unlikely for electricity demand to surpass this peak for the remainder of the summer season.
In discussions about the proposed electricity interconnection between Cyprus and Greece, Zavallis highlighted the benefits of the project, which would enable Cyprus to import electricity when necessary and export surplus power. He explained that the interconnection would facilitate a more flexible electricity market, allowing suppliers to submit bids for buying and selling power through the system. If the project proceeds, a dedicated department within the TSO will manage the interconnection.
However, the TSO's optimistic outlook is tempered by concerns raised during a recent meeting of the House energy committee. Officials and industry representatives warned that Cyprus could face a significant reduction in its conventional electricity generation capacity by 2030 unless critical energy projects are completed. The committee discussed the potential loss of nine aging conventional units at Dhekelia and Vasiliko, which are required to be withdrawn under European environmental protocols. This could result in a shortfall of around 750MW if natural gas supplies are not secured and the interconnection with Greece is not realized.
Energy Minister Michael Damianos acknowledged that recent outages have been exacerbated by high electricity demand coupled with failures at conventional generation units. The committee's discussions underscore the urgent need for strategic planning and investment in Cyprus's energy infrastructure to ensure a reliable electricity supply in the future.
As temperatures continue to moderate and electricity demand eases, the TSO remains vigilant in monitoring the situation, ensuring that the electricity needs of Cyprus are met while preparing for potential challenges ahead.