Cyprus power supply remains under severe pressure on Wednesday as an orange heat warning drives electricity demand higher, increasing the risk of short power cuts across the island.
A fault at the Dhekelia power station, combined with exceptionally high demand, has left the electricity system operating with limited reserves.
The most critical period is expected between 6 pm and 10 pm. SigmaLive understands that brief, localised power outages cannot be ruled out if demand exceeds available generation.
Authorities are urging consumers to reduce electricity use wherever possible, particularly during the evening peak.
Operators race to avoid power cuts
The Assistant Director of the Transmission System Operator of Cyprus (TSOC) National Energy Control Centre, Haris Zavallis, told the Cyprus News Agency (CNA) that the available generation margin stood at 183 megawatts on Wednesday morning, with an additional generating unit expected to come online.
However, he warned that the situation remains “extremely marginal”, especially between 6 pm and 10 pm, when electricity demand reaches its highest levels.
“We cannot say with certainty that we will meet evening demand. The system is under stress and operating at its limits,” he said.
Even if the Dhekelia unit returns to service, the system will continue to operate with only minimal reserves.
Limited reserves increase risk
Zavallis explained that TSOC normally maintains reserve capacity to respond quickly if a major generating unit unexpectedly fails.
If another major unit were to suffer a fault, fast-start reserve units could usually restore supply within 12 to 15 minutes. However, those reserve units are already expected to be operating, leaving significantly less backup capacity available.
He added that if the Dhekelia unit does not return to operation by around 4 pm to 4:30 pm, the likelihood of supply shortages during the evening will increase considerably.
If it resumes operation as planned, electricity demand is expected to be met, although with very limited reserves.
Public urged to reduce electricity use
TSOC says it will use every available megawatt of generation to avoid power cuts while maintaining the safety and reliability of the electricity network.
Zavallis called on the public to help reduce pressure on the grid by limiting the use of electrical appliances, particularly between 6 pm and 8 pm on Wednesday and Thursday.
He also expressed optimism that the situation will improve over the weekend as temperatures are forecast to ease. From next week, an additional generating unit at Vasilikos is expected to enter service, increasing available capacity by approximately 105 megawatts.
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