The unions representing workers at the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) have issued a comprehensive statement criticising energy policy decisions and highlighting what they describe as serious problems affecting electricity supply adequacy and costs in Cyprus.
The 2,260-word statement, released following a meeting of union leadership yesterday, directly challenges both the Ministry of Energy and the Cyprus Energy Regulatory Authority (CERA), particularly regarding decisions made during the previous administration under President Anastasiades.
According to the unions, these decisions have undermined electricity supply security, imposed expensive solutions that burden consumers, and enabled substantial profits for private producers.
The statement levels particularly pointed criticism at the former president of CERA and its current vice-president, whom the unions accuse of improperly intervening to halt a tender process initiated by EAC for acquiring land parcels intended for photovoltaic park installations.
The unions also criticise the current Energy Ministry leadership for delays in advancing the installation of new generators at the Dhekelia power station, which they argue would provide cheaper and more secure electricity production.
They further highlight delays in approving EAC and system operator requests for central storage systems within the network to protect system stability and reduce cutbacks affecting residential photovoltaic systems.
The detailed document raises multiple concerns about energy policy implementation, claiming that current approaches have led to windfall profits for renewable energy producers while failing to adequately address the country’s energy security needs.
The statement touches on several key energy infrastructure issues, including the Dhekelia power station modernisation, renewable energy development, energy storage systems, and the sixth unit at Vasilikos power station, which remains inactive despite significant investment.
Union representatives indicate they have repeatedly raised these issues with authorities, warning that failure to address them could lead to inadequate electricity supply and continued high costs for consumers across Cyprus.
The Ministry of Energy and CERA have not yet responded to the specific allegations contained in the unions’ statement.
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