Nicosia, Cyprus. Cyprus’ electricity authority (EAC) is facing challenges linked to ageing power stations, inaccurate generators and increased competition as electricity demand rises, chairman George Petrou said on Wednesday.
EAC highlights ageing infrastructure and generator issues
Petrou said problems in the energy sector were expected to persist as demand grows and power stations are several years old, speaking after a meeting with Akel general secretary Stefanos Stefanou.
He attributed part of the problems to the age of the stations, which have been in use for more than 40 years, and said he remained positive that inaccuracies in generators could be addressed through efforts already underway.
Akel calls for integrated energy planning and government action
Stefanou said Cyprus faced many challenges regarding energy efficiency and called on the government to abandon a passive attitude and assume its responsibilities.
He said the island lacked integrated energy planning, arguing it should have been implemented long ago to avert further power disruptions, and called for necessary measures, policies and investments to be promoted.
Concerns over prices and natural gas
Stefanou appealed to the EAC to guarantee a secure, sufficient and affordable electricity supply, saying current prices were excessive and that the absence of natural gas was a key factor.
He said the arrival of natural gas remained uncertain and that the government would have to respond on the issue.
Recent history of power cuts
Cyprus has experienced both scheduled and unscheduled power cuts across the island in recent years.
The EAC has carried out interruptions in several areas, leaving them without electricity for several hours due to increased demand or maintenance work.
How do you think Cyprus should address rising electricity demand while ensuring secure and affordable supply?
