Alpha News

“Solar for All” Scheme to Include Energy Storage

Published January 1, 2026, 20:17

The new year brings changes to the electricity market with the abolition of the net metering system for photovoltaic (PV) production and consumption per kilowatt-hour, replaced by a net billing system that calculates the cost per kilowatt-hour. However, those with existing contracts or installation applications under the old system will not be affected. According to data, approximately 88,000 properties across Cyprus have installed PV systems, including 7,000 businesses. Nicosia leads with 34,711 installations, followed by Limassol (20,146), Larnaca (15,418), Paphos (10,275), and Famagusta (4,812). Following the end of the previous “Solar for All” scheme, a new plan is expected to be announced by the Ministry of Energy. The new scheme is expected to include a requirement for the installation of energy storage batteries, with details regarding battery size, use of stored energy (self-consumption or grid injection), and subsidies yet to be clarified. Phanos Karantonis, President of the Renewable Energy Companies Association, explains that battery installation is necessary due to high energy production during off-peak hours, which leads to curtailments. Batteries will allow the storage of surplus energy for use when demand is higher. Battery prices vary depending on capacity, with a typical household system expected to pay for itself in 3-5 years.