Sun to cover 40% of Cyprus power needs

Cyprus is on track to meet 40% of its energy needs through solar power by 2030, according to Francesco La Camera, the director-general of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA). La Camera stressed the significance of interconnecting energy grids among different countries, particularly in the Mediterranean region, to meet energy demands and maintain system balance.

IRENA has been collaborating with Cyprus to assess its transition to renewable energy, exploring not only solar but also offshore wind and interconnectivity with other Mediterranean nations. La Camera emphasized the importance of modernizing grid infrastructure, implementing supportive policies and complying with European Union regulations to promote renewable energy.

Storage technologies play a crucial role in enhancing interconnectivity and flexibility within the grid, La Camera indicated, highlighting projects like the Euro-Asia Interconnector, connecting Israel, Cyprus and Greece with the aim of enhancing energy distribution at a lower cost. He also stressed the importance of physical infrastructure, workforce training and institutional capacity development in Cyprus.