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General Overwiev
The energy system of Cyprus is an isolated energy system without
indigenous sources of energy apart from renewable potential and is
therefore almost entirely dependent on imported fuels. Imported crude
oil and final oil products cover more than 90% of the country’s primary
energy supply needs. Imported coal which is used in the cement industry
accounts for another 5%.
Energy consumption has increased by 7% per years in recent years. The
transport sector is the largest energy consumer in Cyprus accounting for
46% of final consumption. The industrial sector accounts for 21% and the
Domestic and Tertiary Sectors account for about 17% each.
Gasoline and Kerosene (Jet Fuels) are almost entirely used in the
transport sector. Diesel oil is used in all demand sectors with the
transport sector absorbing 50%. LPG is used in the domestic and services
sector (mainly hotels and restaurants). Coal and fuel oil (light and
heavy) are used only in the Industrial demand side. Heavy fuel oil is
the predominant fuel for electricity generation.
Cyprus has no coal mining industry. Some small quantities are imported
and used fro cement production by two privately owned enterprises. There
are no restrictions on coal imports. The sector of solid fuels is of no
significant importance to Cyprus and this situation is not expected to
change in the near future.
Cyprus has no gas sector. Various feasibility studies have examined the
possibility of introduction of the natural gas to the energy system of
Cyprus (piping gas from Syria). Even though there is no gas sector at
present, the legislation to harmonise with EU requirements is prepared.
The contribution of renewable energy sources to the country’s energy
needs is about 2%, mainly from solar energy. Solar energy is used for
water heating and heating of swimming pools at hotels. No other uses
have been developed.
Wind energy has not yet been exploited in the country. The Cyprus Wind
Atlas shows a few locations in the eastern part and southern coastal
areas and in the adjacent inland areas that may be considered favorable
for the production of wind energy.
Biomass appears to be promising but few activities have been reported in
this area. Biogas exploitation from Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) disposed
of in landfills has been reviewed for Nicosia, Pafos, Limassol and
Larnaca. The expected landfill gas production may justify in the future
the installation of small co-generation units.
Although a comprehensive study for Cyprus hydro potential has not been
conducted, it is expected that this would be very limited especially
after the last years water shortages. However, on an experimental basis,
there is a small hydro plant at Asprokremos Dam with a nomimal power of
500kW although it has been out of operation in recent years due to water
shortages.
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