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Cyprus Parliament Discusses DSMK Budget: Energy Storage and Staffing

Published March 2, 2026, 17:08
Cyprus Parliament Discusses DSMK Budget: Energy Storage and Staffing

The Cyprus Parliament is discussing a budget of €67.3 million for the Cyprus Transmission System Operator (TSO) for 2026. The majority of the budget is allocated to the installation of energy storage systems, with a significant €50 million coming from an EU grant. The TSO is in the process of hiring 23 new employees and completing the return of employees from the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) to strengthen the National Energy Center. The TSO has been certified by the Cyprus Energy Regulatory Authority (CERA) as an independent entity and has launched the competitive electricity market. The installation of storage systems is expected to reduce energy curtailments from photovoltaics and improve the operation of the electricity system. The organization is also promoting relocation to its own building, as it currently rents two buildings. During the discussion in the Economic Committee, the TSO's Market Operations Director, Dr. Konstantinos Varnavas, emphasized the need for staffing and housing. He explained that savings will come from the more efficient operation of the electricity system and the transfer of energy to peak hours. MPs raised questions about the economic benefits of storage systems for consumers, the number of storage licenses approved, and the project completion schedule. The absence of open grants for photovoltaics and storage was also highlighted.