**Grid Operator Assures No Power Cuts Expected as Demand Eases**
The transmission system operator (TSO) in Cyprus has provided reassurance to consumers regarding the stability of electricity supply in the coming days. With a notable decrease in electricity demand and ample generating capacity available, the TSO has confirmed that power cuts are not anticipated.
Hara Koussiappa, a spokesperson for the TSO, communicated with the Cyprus News Agency on Friday, stating that recent midday electricity demand has reached approximately 1,200 megawatts (MW). In contrast, night-time demand has fluctuated between 950MW and 1,000MW. The current available production capacity exceeds 1,240MW, which offers not only sufficient coverage for the existing demand but also reserve capacity to address any potential failures of generating units.
“We are not expected to have any cuts or problems in meeting this demand,” Koussiappa assured. She elaborated that should there be any disruption due to the loss of a production unit, the impact would be minimal, lasting only a few minutes while the system undergoes rebalancing.
This optimistic outlook comes on the heels of electricity supply challenges experienced in July, when record-high demand coincided with failures in conventional generating units. However, Koussiappa noted that the situation has improved since then, with a further decline in demand anticipated as many residents leave Cyprus for the holiday period starting August 15.
“Currently, the coverage of demand is satisfactory,” she stated, indicating that the TSO will continue to monitor the situation closely, especially as holidaymakers return and temperature fluctuations occur.
In discussions with the House energy committee last month, officials highlighted a looming challenge for the future of Cyprus's electricity generation. Nine ageing conventional units located at Dhekelia and Vasiliko are set to be withdrawn after 2029 in compliance with European environmental regulations. These units contribute approximately 750MW of generating capacity, and their removal could lead to a significant shortfall if planned energy projects are not completed on schedule.
Energy Minister Michael Damianos has assured that electricity supply should remain adequate until 2030, relying on existing generators and planned storage capacity. He emphasized the necessity of integrating natural gas into the energy mix to maintain sufficient capacity beyond that date. Additionally, a new 120MW central storage facility is scheduled to be implemented by the TSO starting in January, which is expected to bolster the grid's reliability.
As the TSO continues to manage the electricity supply in Cyprus, the focus remains on ensuring that the grid can meet demand effectively while preparing for future challenges posed by aging infrastructure and regulatory changes.