Urgent Call For Infrastructure Upgrades
Trade unions representing employees at the Electricity Authority of Cyprus have called for the immediate advancement of upgrade works at the Dekelia Power Plant amid ongoing debate over electricity costs and energy security in Cyprus. The intervention comes as pressure continues mounting on the country’s energy infrastructure and long-term electricity supply strategy.
Concrete Stance Backed By Government Statements
Representatives from EPOPHA, SIDIKEK, SEPAHK and SYVAHK said recent government statements made on April 30 reinforced AHK’s long-standing position that Dekelia should remain and be upgraded as the country’s second major electricity generation facility. According to the unions, the statements must now translate into concrete decisions by institutions, including the Ministry of Energy, RAEK and DSMK, rather than remain limited to political commitments.
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Overcoming Hurdles And Ensuring Supply Security
AHK Production is already moving forward with plans aimed at replacing older generating units and strengthening the reliability of the electricity system. Union representatives argued that upgrading the facility is critical not only for meeting current demand but also for protecting the long-term resilience and stability of the national grid. The proposed measures are also intended to reduce risks linked to supply disruptions during periods of increased energy demand.
Criticism Of Subsidy Discrepancies And Private Interests
The unions also criticised recent references by government officials regarding possible subsidies for new generating units at Dekelia. According to the organisations, workers are not seeking state grants but instead support a fair distribution of electricity-related costs across all consumers. Concerns were also raised about the growing influence of private sector interests within the energy market, with unions arguing that profitability should not outweigh long-term system stability and public energy security.
Strategic Upgrades And Future Reserves
Aside from immediate infrastructure upgrades, the unions point to the potential benefits of installing a fully integrated combined-cycle unit. Such an installation, financed through extensive market integration and long-term amortization, could lower electricity costs while providing a vital strategic reserve.
Government Inaction And Market Vulnerabilities
Union leaders criticised what they described as slow progress on key infrastructure decisions, arguing that proposals submitted by AHK’s board and technical experts have not received sufficient attention. At the same time, concerns were raised over meetings between government officials and private energy sector groups, which unions claim have delayed or weakened earlier decisions linked to the Dekelia upgrade project.
Looking Ahead: Compensation And Natural Gas Debate
The announcement also touches on proposals for compensating excess energy produced by photovoltaic systems. Despite a fleeting push by the Minister during a sole visit to AHK, these measures have not gained traction. Meanwhile, the debate over the introduction of natural gas in Cyprus continues to raise concerns about the energy strategy, with questions lingering on its integration timeline and pricing mechanisms. Even if natural gas arrives by 2028, union representatives advocate for keeping Units 1, 2, and 3 operational at the Vasiliko facility as a strategic reserve and system safeguard.
A Pivotal Moment For The Energy Sector
As the energy sector teeters on the brink, Trade Unions in AHK hope that the strategic upgrades at Vasiliko will receive a more timely and robust response from the state. They promise to revisit and expand on these issues in upcoming communications, as the stakes continue to mount in an industry critical to national security and economic stability.
