Newsroom
A heated confrontation erupted in parliament between MPs and the Distribution System Operator (DSO) over restrictions on home-installed photovoltaic (PV) systems. Lawmakers slammed the operator’s decision to cut the use of solar energy produced by households, calling it unfair and even "criminal."
The tension escalated when a DSO representative told the Energy Committee that "no one forced consumers to install solar panels" and that if they don’t like the restrictions, they can remove them. The remark infuriated MPs, with committee chairman Kyriakos Hatzigiannis and DISY MP Nikos Sykas accusing the operator of disrespecting consumers and hindering the transition to renewable energy.
At the heart of the debate is a proposed law that would prevent authorities from limiting the use of solar energy generated by homeowners, ensuring they can fully benefit from their investment. The current system allows the DSO to cut or limit the flow of energy into the grid for "safety reasons," but MPs argue this unfairly penalizes consumers who have spent thousands on PV installations.
While some MPs, like AKEL’s Costas Costa, urged caution, suggesting the issue be re-evaluated to avoid destabilizing the grid, Hatzigiannis remained firm. He intends to push the bill to a vote on April 3, aiming to protect consumers' right to use the solar power they produce.
