Nicosia: The upcoming Cypriot Presidency of the Council of the European Union will provide an important platform for Cyprus, which intends to contribute to a stronger and more resilient Energy Union by promoting improved infrastructure, enhanced digitalisation, lower energy costs, and reduced energy poverty through renewable deployment and efficiency measures, Permanent Secretary of Energy Ministry Marios Panayides said on Thursday.
According to Cyprus News Agency, Panayides was addressing a conference entitled ‘Towards a Greener Future, European Innovation for Sustainable Cyprus’ in Nicosia. The event included the participation of the Embassies of the Netherlands and France. He stated that Cyprus aims to support a European Union that advances the energy transition while ensuring that no household, enterprise, or citizen is left behind.
Panayides emphasized Cyprus’ commitment to its European obligations, including achieving climate neutrality by 2050. He noted that progress has been encouraging, as the biennial progress report for 2022 and 2023 shows positive movement across obligations. Preliminary data for 2024 indicates that renewable energy has exceeded 21% in final energy consumption and reached 24% in electricity generation.
He identified the integration of higher shares of renewables into an isolated electricity system as a critical challenge for Cyprus, mentioning significant developments underway such as additional storage projects. The electricity interconnection with neighboring states remains a strategic priority, as ending energy isolation will increase security of supply, support deeper renewable integration, and strengthen Cyprus in the wider regional energy framework.
In parallel, Panayides mentioned that natural gas would continue to serve as a transitional fuel over the next 15 to 20 years. Cyprus’ reserves have the potential to contribute to the quantities required in the European market during this period.
Panayides concluded by emphasizing that a secure and sustainable energy system requires coordinated action.