Exploring Alternative Solutions for Smart Meter Installation
In a recent development, the Energy Ministry and the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) are actively seeking alternative methods to facilitate the installation of smart meters. This move comes as a response to the administrative court’s decision to block the telecommunications authority (Cyta) from being awarded the tender for this project. Energy Minister George Papanastasiou expressed the urgency of finding other avenues to ensure the deployment of smart meters, which are crucial for the efficient management of distributed renewable energy resources.
Papanastasiou, after a session with the House commerce committee, hinted at a possible shift in strategy, suggesting that smart meters may be classified as “critical infrastructure.” This reclassification could potentially streamline their installation process. The minister acknowledged the setbacks that have plagued the project over the past two years, leading to repeated postponements.
The EAC is also facing pressure to meet deadlines set by the European Union for the installation of 400,000 smart meters. With an initial target to finalize the supplier deal by March 2024, the EAC is under scrutiny to receive and install a significant number of meters within specified timeframes. The urgency is compounded by the need to secure €30 million in funding from the EU, which is tied to these milestones.
Despite these challenges, Papanastasiou remains optimistic about the trial operation of Cyprus’ competitive electricity market by year’s end. He indicated a 70 percent probability of achieving this goal, despite skepticism from some quarters, including House energy committee chair Kyriakos Hadjiyiannis, who questioned the minister’s assurances and stressed the importance of transparency and accountability to Cypriot electricity consumers.
As Cyprus navigates through these complex issues, patience is requested from its citizens, who are keenly awaiting the resolution of the smart meter installation delays and the promised benefits of a more competitive electricity market.
