Cyprus gives go-ahead to 570 MWh of battery storage

ESS News has seen a document published by Cyprus’ transmission system operator listing applications for 34 battery storage projects with a combined power output of around 900 MW.

Of these, eight projects – totalling 231 MW/570 MWh – have been granted preliminary grid connection terms. The respective developers have now submitted the required documentation to secure final connection approvals.

The most advanced projects include five 12 MW/40 MWh battery systems by Elestore Ltd; a 32 MW/100 MWh project by Havvneve Storage Ltd; a 59 MW/120 MWh installation by H.E.S.S Hybrid Energy Storage Systems Ltd; and an 80 MW/160 MWh project being developed by the Electricity Authority of Cyprus, the country’s state-owned utility. This is the only project in the group backed by a public entity.

If all eight projects proceed to grid connection, they will operate as standalone storage systems without subsidy support. This is not seen as a major barrier, given that Cyprus currently curtails roughly half of its annual renewable energy generation due to grid constraints. As a result, early-mover storage projects are expected to benefit significantly.

According to the document, Elestore’s five projects – each with a capacity of 12 MW/40 MWh and located across different parts of the island – are the most advanced, having already secured all necessary construction permits.

By the end of last year, Cyprus had installed approximately 1,139 MW of renewable energy capacity, of which about 957 MW was solar photovoltaics.