Cyprus’s electricity system came under severe strain on Monday evening as thousands of households in mountain Limassol and Nicosia lost power during extreme heat conditions.
The Transmission System Operator was forced to disconnect power to thousands of homes around 8pm due to faults in the Karvounas area, problems linked to both system stress and excessive usage during high temperatures.
The crisis underscored the urgent need for upgrading the Dhekelia power station, which proved essential despite housing outdated steam units that the EU has mandated for retirement by 2029.
Without Dhekelia’s contribution, Cyprus lacks sufficient electricity capacity to meet peak demand during summer or winter when solar panel output decreases or ceases entirely.
System vulnerabilities exposed
According to regulations and legislation, Cyprus does not have adequate electricity supply during periods of increased consumption when photovoltaic generation is reduced or eliminated and without the capability to utilise energy storage systems.
The dramatic situation resulted from faults that appeared in EAC units across all its power stations. Although maximum available capacity from EAC units reached 1,040 megawatts by 6pm Monday, availability increased by approximately 20-25 megawatts in subsequent minutes due to utilising a unit at the Moni station.
Wind turbines provided crucial support, generating 40-45 megawatts after 7pm, helping the system withstand enormous pressure.
Authorities’ warning failures
Energy Ministry officials, CERA, the Transmission System Operator and EAC had repeatedly stated in recent months that electricity needs would be met “marginally” – meaning they could be covered, or they could not, without stating this explicitly.
The failure of authorities to provide timely warnings to consumers about potential power disruption risks raises concerns.
Today’s outlook uncertain
Similar conditions are expected today as temperatures exceed 40°C again and electricity demand will likely surpass Monday’s levels. Unless faults in EAC generators are repaired, meeting demand during late afternoon hours remains seriously in doubt.
The first energy storage system is expected to operate in the second half of 2026, managed by the Transmission System Operator and EAC, despite strong objections from private sector entrepreneurs.