Apostolos Tomaras
Critical questions surrounding the electrical interconnection of Cyprus with the European electricity network through Greece have been raised in a letter from the Chamber of Engineers (ETEK) to the Ministry of Energy. The letter, dated November 8, 2024, and addressed to the Ministry’s Director General, Marios Panagidis, highlights concerns about the project's cost, economic feasibility, technical studies, and potential consumer benefits.
These issues were identified by the Scientific Committee on Energy Policy and Energy Saving – Conventional and Renewable Energy Sources. In an accompanying note, ETEK President Konstantinos Konstantis emphasizes the importance of the Chamber's involvement to address the outlined concerns. The letter presents 18 technical and economic issues for discussion, clarifying that geopolitical considerations lie outside ETEK’s scope.
Cost and sustainability
ETEK directly challenges official cost estimates for the electricity cable project. According to the letter, the Chamber believes the final cost will exceed €1.9 billion, though no precise figure is available. It warns that Cypriot consumers will bear 63% of the cost, with a disproportionate per capita burden of 95% for Cypriots compared to just 5% for Greek consumers.
The Chamber expresses doubt about the project’s financial viability, noting a lack of clear projections or guarantees regarding the final cost and how the initiative will lower electricity prices.
Energy dependence
ETEK also raises concerns about the potential energy dependency this project may create for Cyprus. It suggests that the country should instead invest in its domestic energy capacity to advance the energy transition. This could include further development of renewable energy systems, electricity storage, and green hydrogen production.
Given Cyprus's average electricity demand of approximately 450 MW, ETEK questions the necessity of such a significant investment. It also raises the issue of under-utilization, questioning who would shoulder additional costs and secure the guaranteed profit margin of 8.3% for the investors.
Project implementation
The letter draws attention to the contracts and processes surrounding the project's execution, particularly the award of key contracts for cables and substations without tenders. ETEK criticizes the lack of transparency in these procedures, describing it as a "serious issue requiring immediate attention."
ETEK also outlines significant technical challenges, such as ensuring the cable’s durability under extreme conditions like high pressure at great depths, corrosive environments, and damage from sea currents. The Chamber warns that repairs, if necessary, would be both complex and costly. Additionally, it notes that cable installation is particularly vulnerable to damage and recommends incorporating protections against risks such as earthquakes and climate change-related events.
Security risks
ETEK raises concerns about the cable's vulnerability to sabotage, including cyberattacks and other security threats. It stresses the importance of collaboration among the involved countries to safeguard this critical infrastructure. The letter calls for careful negotiation of transnational agreements to address jurisdictional issues and ensure operational safety.
Finally, ETEK highlights the potential ecological impact of the project, urging measures to protect marine biodiversity. It warns that both construction activities and electromagnetic radiation from the cable could harm marine species.
The Chamber’s detailed letter underscores the need for rigorous planning, transparency, and environmental consideration as Cyprus progresses with this ambitious interconnection project.
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