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As Cyprus heads into winter, some households have already begun experiencing cuts to their photovoltaic (PV) system output. The Cyprus Transmission System Operator (TSO) confirmed that the reductions are necessary to maintain grid stability during periods of low electricity demand.
TSO spokesperson Ms. Kousiappa explained in an interview with RIK’s Morning Route that these curtailments typically occur in spring and autumn, when energy consumption drops. During these times, electricity production from renewable sources can exceed what the grid can safely absorb, forcing the operator to temporarily limit solar generation.
She emphasized that the country’s electricity network must always maintain a precise balance between production and consumption. When output from renewable sources surpasses demand, the TSO issues control orders to reduce or disconnect generation to prevent instability.
According to Kousiappa, weekends are when curtailments most often occur, as many workplaces shut down and overall demand dips. However, she noted that similar restrictions may occasionally happen on weekdays under unusually low consumption conditions.
Addressing the longer-term outlook, Kousiappa said energy storage could play a key role in minimizing such disruptions. A national storage system is planned under TSO management, and the evaluation of project tenders is currently underway. The goal, she added, is to have the system operational by June.
