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EAC Executes €92 Million In EU Co-Financed Projects

The Cyprus Electricity Authority (EAC) is currently managing projects worth a total of €92 million, co-financed by the EU. These initiatives are part of the “THALEIA 2021-2027” Political Cohesion Program, with the EU covering 70% of the funding.

Major Projects Overview

  • Transmission Infrastructure Upgrades (€43 million): This involves the installation and enhancement of transmission substations and other electrical equipment to ensure more reliable power delivery.
  • Geographic Information System Expansion (€5 million): The development and expansion of GIS capabilities to improve the management and planning of the electrical network.
  • Optical Fiber Network Implementation (€17 million): Integration of optical fiber within the distribution system to enhance communication and data transfer efficiency.
  • Distribution System Automation (€27 million): The installation of SCADA/ADMS systems to automate and optimize the distribution network, improving response times and reliability.
  • Transmission Line Upgrades (€10 million): Utilizing the reconductoring method to enhance the capacity and efficiency of existing transmission lines.

Strategic Goals

These projects aim to modernize Cyprus’s electrical infrastructure, increase efficiency, and enhance the overall reliability of the power grid. The emphasis on automation and advanced technology integration aligns with broader EU objectives of creating a more resilient and sustainable energy network.

The successful execution of these projects is expected to have a significant positive impact on Cyprus’s energy sector, fostering economic growth and ensuring a more stable power supply. This initiative reflects a strategic commitment to leveraging EU funds to bolster national infrastructure, thereby supporting long-term development goals.

Cyprus Hits Historic Tourism Peak As Overtourism Risks Mount

Record-Breaking Performance In Tourism

Cyprus’ tourism sector achieved unprecedented success in 2025 with record-breaking arrivals and revenues. According to Eurobank analyst Konstantinos Vrachimis, the island’s performance was underpinned by solid real income growth and enhanced market diversification.

Robust Growth In Arrivals And Revenues

Total tourist arrivals reached 4.5 million in 2025, rising 12.2% from 4 million in 2024, with momentum sustained through the final quarter. Tourism receipts for the January–November period climbed to €3.6 billion, marking a 15.3% year-on-year increase that exceeded inflation. The improvement was not driven by volume alone. Average expenditure per visitor increased by 4.6%, while daily spending rose by 9.2%, indicating stronger purchasing power and higher-value tourism activity.

Economic Impact And Diversification Of Source Markets

The stronger performance translated into tangible gains for the broader services economy, lifting real tourism-related income and overall sector turnover. Demand patterns are also shifting. While the United Kingdom remains Cyprus’ largest source market, its relative share has moderated as arrivals from Israel, Germany, Italy, the Czech Republic, the Netherlands, Austria, and Poland have expanded. This gradual diversification reduces dependency on a single market and strengthens resilience against external shocks.

Enhanced Air Connectivity And Seasonal Dynamics

Air connectivity has improved markedly in 2025, with flight volumes expanding substantially compared to 2019. This expansion is driven by increased airline capacity, enhanced route coverage, and more frequent flights, supporting demand during shoulder seasons and reducing overreliance on peak-month flows. Seasonal patterns remain prominent, with arrivals building through the spring and peaking in summer, thereby bolstering employment, fiscal receipts, and corporate earnings across hospitality, transport, and retail sectors.

Structural Risks And Future Considerations

Despite strong headline figures, structural challenges remain. The European Commission’s EU Tourism Dashboard highlights tourism intensity, seasonality, and market concentration as key risk indicators. Cyprus records a high ratio of overnight stays relative to its resident population, signalling potential overtourism pressures. Continued reliance on a limited group of origin markets also exposes the sector to geopolitical uncertainty and sudden demand swings. Seasonal peaks place additional strain on infrastructure, housing availability, labour supply, and natural resources, particularly water.

Strategic Investment And Market Resilience

Vrachimis concludes that sustained growth will depend on targeted investment, product upgrading, and continued market diversification. Strengthening year-round offerings, improving infrastructure capacity, and promoting higher-value experiences can help balance demand while preserving long-term competitiveness. These measures are essential not only to manage overtourism risks but also to ensure tourism remains a stable pillar of Cyprus’ economic development.

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