In 2025, the majority of Cyprus's electricity generation still relies heavily on fossil fuels, with more than seven-tenths of the electricity consumed coming from oil. However, the island is making significant strides toward adopting low-carbon sources of energy. Green energy comprises over a quarter of the total electricity generation, predominantly from solar energy, which contributes just over 23%. Wind energy plays a smaller role, accounting for slightly more than 3% of the electricity mix. While there is a significant reliance on fossil energy, the presence of burgeoning solar and wind sectors signifies a positive shift towards cleaner energy solutions.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, Eurostat and IEA. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Cyprus?
Despite these developments, overall electricity consumption per person in Cyprus has seen a decline since its peak. In 2025, the average electricity use per capita was 4,104 kWh, which marks a reduction of 615 kWh from the record high of 4,719 kWh back in 2010. This decrease may raise concerns about stagnation or decline in overall electricity demand on the island. On a brighter note, the portion of electricity generated from low-carbon sources has been on the rise, reaching 1,125 kWh per person in 2025 compared to the previous high of 974 kWh in 2024. This increase of 151 kWh per person signifies encouraging progress toward expanding the clean electricity share.
Suggestions
To further enhance low-carbon electricity generation, Cyprus should consider expanding its successful solar initiatives. Given the island's abundant sunlight, increasing solar capacity would capitalize on this natural advantage. Furthermore, looking at regions where low-carbon technologies have thrived offers valuable insights. North Macedonia demonstrates the potential of solar, generating 49% of its electricity from this source. Additionally, the impressive contribution of nuclear energy in countries like France (67%) and states like New Hampshire (55%) suggests that exploring the development of nuclear energy could significantly bolster Cyprus's clean electricity portfolio. A diversified approach would ensure a robust transition toward a sustainable energy future, minimizing the environmental and economic impacts of over-reliance on fossil fuels.
History
The evolution of low-carbon electricity in Cyprus reveals a relatively recent focus on solar energy. From 2020 onward, solar power began to steadily increase, with consistent yearly additions of 0.1 to 0.2 TWh. In earlier years, starting around 2010, efforts to generate wind electricity saw smaller increments, leading to a gradual accumulation of wind capacity. However, it wasn't until the solar sector gained momentum that a more noteworthy expansion of low-carbon electricity occurred. These developments have set the stage for Cyprus to build on its solar success and potentially diversify further with nuclear energy. Continuing this trend is critical to meeting future demand and ensuring a sustainable and secure energy supply.
