Utilities in Cyprus: Electricity

Electricity in Cyprus

Electricity has been available in Cyprus since very early in the 20th century, and is supplied by the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC). It was first made available by the British colonials who were running the island at the time, and the system has remained similar to that in the UK, with plugs using the square three-pin system found in the UK.   Appliances sold in shops are required to be fitted with the standard plug or to have an adaptor.

Electricity tariffs are on a scale, with higher costs per unit if customers use more than a basic amount each billing period (which is about two months). In 2007 the cost for domestic customers of the first 120 units in a billing period was 4.15c each (£4.98 for 120), 4.61c each for the next 200 units, 4.86c each for the next 180, 5.10c each for the next 500, and 5.20c each for any more. These prices remained the same for four years.  In 2008 the euro was introduced so prices are now in euro-cents, but not much higher: the first 120 units cost €8.51 (7.09c per unit); the next 200 costs €15.74 (7.87c per unit) and so on. 

Most homes have solar panels on the roof which help towards heating water. On a sunny day from about May to October, there is no need for any extra power for water heating - solar energy heats the hot water tank sufficiently to provide water for showering and washing dishes.  

However washing machines and dishwashers are usually plumbed into the cold water system only, so they do use extra power to heat the necessary water. During the cooler part of the year, or when the day is overcast, we find it necessary to turn our electric water heater on for up to an hour to provide sufficient hot water for showers.

Electricity cables are overhead rather than buried - this means installation is cheaper but storm damage more likely. It also leads to a rather ugly skyline, with not just water tanks and satellite dishes, but also overhead cables almost everywhere.

Cyprus uses the British system for plugs, with three square pins. Some homes still have older style power points, but new appliances are fitted with the correct plugs, or have an adapter supplied.

Most standard white goods and appliances can be bought at electrical stores or larger supermarkets: washing machines, fridges and dishwashers are common, although tumble driers are less so. In a climate where the sun shines for about 360 days of the year, most people hang laundry out to dry.  

Microwave ovens, electric kettles, irons, toasters, etc are to be found in most kitchens, and there are a gradually increasing number of other small appliances available, such as steamers, breadmakers, juice extractors, and so on.  There is not the vast choice that can be found in the USA or UK, but usually at least two or three options can be found.