Newsroom
Trade unions of the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) have expressed strong disappointment following a meeting with Energy Minister Michalis Damianou, warning that a nationwide 24-hour work stoppage will go ahead on Thursday, April 23, 2026.
Union representatives described the meeting as “beyond disappointing,” saying they had expected clearer commitments and more convincing answers on issues affecting both the energy sector and consumers. According to union officials, no assurances were given that their concerns would be treated as a priority by the Ministry.
The Minister presented a more measured position, stating that the issues raised are not unreasonable but stem from long-standing structural problems in the energy sector that will take time to resolve. He said the government is moving step by step in the right direction while also stressing the need to comply with regulatory frameworks, especially those related to competition rules and state aid.
One major point of disagreement is the unions’ request for financial support related to the Dekeleia power station. The Minister explained that such support could be considered illegal state aid without proper approval, adding that the Ministry is waiting for additional data from EAC to evaluate the request. He also made clear that decisions by the Cyprus Energy Regulatory Authority are independent and cannot be controlled by the government.
The unions’ concerns are not focused on labor demands but on state policy decisions. One of their main objections is the entry of Cyta into the energy market, a move already approved by Parliament, which the Minister said he cannot change.
Union representatives emphasized that they are fully aligned with the EAC Board of Directors on the challenges facing the organization, including ongoing obstacles that they say prevent it from effectively serving consumers. They also expressed frustration that many of these issues fall under different government departments, meaning solutions must come from the Council of Ministers rather than the Energy Ministry alone.
Earlier discussions between the Minister and the EAC Board were described as constructive and informative. Topics included renewable energy, storage systems, electricity networks, and key infrastructure projects such as Dekeleia and Vasilikos. The Board also raised concerns about investment recovery and permits for storage installations, noting that many of these matters fall under regulatory authorities.
Both the Board and unions confirmed there is no disagreement between them. The unions’ planned action follows consultations with staff across all cities and marks the third warning stoppage, after earlier two-hour and three-hour strikes.
The upcoming 24-hour strike is expected to close EAC customer service centers and offices across the country. However, the Authority said critical infrastructure will continue to operate normally, as essential personnel will remain on duty to maintain electricity supply.
There is still uncertainty about generation capacity during the strike, especially since about 50 percent of shift workers at the Dekeleia station are expected to participate. Final decisions on system management will be made by the Cyprus Transmission System Operator.
EAC has encouraged customers to use online and alternative services during the disruption, including its website, mobile app, banking platforms, and post offices for bill payments. Applications for connections and other services can also be submitted electronically.
The Authority apologized for any inconvenience and said it is making every effort to ensure a safe and reliable electricity supply. Union representatives warned that further escalation is being considered if there is no meaningful progress in addressing their concerns.
