UNDP & EU Back Cyprus Solar Plant

• UN-controlled buffer zone in Cyprus is being proposed to host a bicommunal solar power plant
• It is expected to have up to 50 MW PV capacity, and also host an energy storage project
• A German company has been hired to conduct a techno-commercial feasibility study to evaluate its potential

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the European Commission (EC) are supporting the development of a bi-communal solar power plant in Cyprus with an installed capacity of 30 MW to 50 MW, accompanied by an energy storage system.

A renowned but unidentified German company has been picked to carry out a study for the same, to be finalized by the end of 2023.

The study will explore the proposed project's technical, regulatory, economic and financial feasibility. It will also recommend suitable locations in the buffer zone to site the facility. Results are expected to provide insights and recommendations for the future development of the bicommunal solar plant.

Also known as the Green Line, the buffer zone was established by the United Nations (UN) in 1974, dividing Cyprus into northern and southern regions where Greek and Turkish Cypriots live separately. It extends to approximately 180 km across the island and is controlled by the UN.

While UNDP is to manage the project, it will be funded by the commission's Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community with €325,000.

The UNDP called the study an important step in building a more integrated and sustainable electricity system in Cyprus. "It is expected to foster cooperation between the two communities of the island, while supporting the objectives of the European Green Deal. Experts appointed by each Cypriot community will also participate in the study," it added.

In April 2023, the Cyprus Municipality of Aradippou launched a tender for a 2.96 MW solar power plant, supported by the EU's THALIA 2021-2027 program (see Cyprus Tender For 2.96 MW Solar Park).