Nicosia, Cyprus. The Electricity Authority of Cyprus will remain a central part of the country’s energy transition as the government invests in electricity networks, energy storage and conventional generation, Energy Minister Michael Damianos said on Thursday.
He said a cleaner electricity system required both expanded renewable energy production and a reliable, resilient and affordable network.
Energy policy role
Speaking at the EAC’s presentation of its 30-month review, Damianos described the authority as a strategic pillar of Cyprus’ energy policy.
“The common denominator in all our efforts is affordable electricity for consumers and the safe operation of the electricity system,” he said.
Damianos said the transition required cohesion, national resilience and professionals serving the public interest. He added that the EAC’s contribution was critical to meeting national energy targets and maintaining the reliability of electricity supplies.
Public utility mission
EAC general manager Adonis Yiasemides said the organisation’s mission went beyond commercial performance, describing electricity as a public good rather than solely an economic commodity.
“EAC will continue to serve society with responsibility, technical expertise and financial prudence, fully recognising that energy is a prerequisite for security, development, social cohesion and the country’s future prospects,” he said.
Yiasemides highlighted the response of EAC employees during the Limassol mountain fires last summer. More than 100 staff worked continuously for 33 days to restore power, rebuilding more than 100 kilometres of damaged network and replacing around 1,400 electricity poles.
He said the experience had strengthened the authority’s emergency preparedness through further investment in drones, specialised equipment and wildfire response capabilities.
Challenges for the electricity sector
EAC chairman George Petrou said the authority’s 30-month term had coincided with a demanding period for Cyprus’ electricity sector, including high energy prices, rising renewable energy penetration, increased investment needs and the introduction of the competitive electricity market.
“EAC is not an ordinary commercial organisation,” he said. “It is an organisation of critical infrastructure and public utility.”
