Cyprus’s National Energy Control Centre does not expect any problems with electricity supply today, despite a forecast record demand of 1,350 MW at some point during the day, the Cyprus Transmission System Operator’s deputy director said.
Haris Zavallis told ANT1 that a unit at Dhekelia has already been delivered, adding an extra 30 MW, while the large Vasilikos unit is due to be delivered later today, raising total availability to 1,218 MW.
“If they operate and everything goes smoothly, demand will be fully covered tonight,” Zavallis said.
He said the reserve capacity available would allow the system to handle smaller-scale problems. The most difficult hours, he added, will be between 6.30pm and 9.30pm. The operator expects demand of around 1,090-1,100 MW today against the 1,218 MW available, meaning no problems are anticipated unless a very serious fault occurs.
According to Zavallis, today’s demand is expected to set a new seasonal record. He noted that during sunny hours, when wind farms are also operating, availability increases and can cover demand of that scale.
Minister rejects political responsibility
In separate comments to Omega, Energy Minister Michalis Damianos said he will not take political responsibility for yesterday’s power cuts. He noted he has been in the role for only seven months, and said the problem is a longstanding one.
Damianos said that during his time as minister, he will do what is necessary to ensure similar problems do not occur next summer.
Read more: