Wasted potential: Cyprus grapples with renewable energy storage challenges

The Parliamentary Trade Committee of the House of Representatives examined the issue of the absence of renewable electricity storage systems, which leads to the rejection of significant power generation. This discussion followed the recent decision of the EAC to install remote control systems, known as "Ripple Control," in buildings.

According to the information presented to the Committee, the conditions that necessitate discharging electricity from renewable energy sources in Cyprus primarily occur during autumn and spring when there is a substantial decrease in demand alongside increased production. These measures are implemented to prevent power outages.

During the session, Makis Ketoni, the president of the Cyprus Hydrogen Association, which operates under the auspices of the OEB, made noteworthy remarks. He highlighted that hydrogen could be utilized not only as an alternative fuel but also as a means of storing energy from renewable sources (the other option being chemical storage, such as batteries). Ketoni emphasized that in the current year, until the end of April, 10,000 megawatt-hours had already been lost, and it is anticipated that by the year's end, Cyprus will reject an additional 30,000 to 40,000 megawatt-hours from the system. Last year, losses from renewable energy sources accounted for approximately 8,000 megawatt-hours. He underscored the fact that this energy is being wasted when it could be effectively utilized.

In response to queries about the lost energy amounts, Ketoni stated that the cost amounted to 200 euros per megawatt hour, prompting the attendees to calculate the financial implications of this energy loss.

Ketoni further disclosed that in Cyprus, around 20% of the energy generated by photovoltaic systems annually goes to waste.

[This article was translated from its Greek original]