Welcome to SHAREs+ in Cyprus

Cyprus is entering a decisive phase in its energy transition, marked by the gradual introduction of Energy Communities into national legislation and an increasing emphasis on public participation in clean energy initiatives. Although the concept is still new in the country, significant progress has been made with the adoption of legislative instruments that recognise Renewable Energy Communities (RECs) and Citizen Energy Communities (CECs). These provisions were formally incorporated through Law 130(I)/2021, regulating the electricity market, and Law 107(I)/2022, promoting renewable energy sources, both of which establish the legal basis for energy communities and define their rights and obligations. 

A major development came in November 2024, when the Cyprus Energy Regulatory Authority (CERA) issued the Regulatory Framework for the Promotion and Facilitation of CECs and RECs. This framework sets out the principles for enabling community participation in electricity markets.

Despite these advancements, Cyprus continues to face systemic challenges. Municipalities and local authorities increasingly recognise the value of citizen driven initiatives but often lack technical knowledge, administrative resources, and practical guidance to establish or operate community schemes. These conditions highlight the importance of structured support and capacity building activities, particularly at the local level. 

Important to mention that Cyprus has two legally register Energy Communities, one at the development of business plan stage and the other at the implementation stage. 

Cyprus participates in SHAREs+ as a replication country, focusing on developing the skills, governance structures, and operational capabilities needed to support effective citizen involvement in the clean energy transition.

The project will provide Cyprus with:

• Technical guidance on community governance, financial models, and implementation steps

• Training and capacity building for municipalities and citizen groups

• Access to tools and methodologies used in successful community energy projects abroad

• Mentoring opportunities through the SHAREs Community Energy Peer Circle

Under SHAREs+, the Cyprus section of the National Gateway will evolve into a central information and support platform tailored to citizen led renewable initiatives. It will include:

• Clear explanations of legal requirements and market rules

• Practical documentation, templates, and procedural guidance

• Tools for project planning and feasibility assessment

• Updated information on national policy developments and support schemes

• Resources specifically designed for municipalities and vulnerable consumers

SHAREs+ will also promote structured dialogue across the energy community landscape in Cyprus. Through workshops, thematic meetings, and coordinated exchanges among regulators, local authorities, civil society, and technical experts, the project will help identify barriers, clarify regulatory complexities, and foster cooperation.

These activities are particularly important given Cyprus’ rapidly changing regulatory environment, including new frameworks for self-consumption, updated market rules, and ongoing investments in modernising the transmission and distribution networks. By creating consistent channels for stakeholder engagement, SHAREs+ supports informed policymaking and strengthens the long-term viability of citizen driven energy initiatives.

Despite its late start, Cyprus has substantial potential to expand energy communities due to favourable solar conditions and growing public interest in energy autonomy. The transition to community energy, however, requires:

• Strengthened institutional support mechanisms

• Simplified administrative procedures

• Wider awareness among citizens and local authorities

• Financial support options

Cyprus Energy Agency, for all SHAREs+ project partners see here: https://shares-project.eu/shares-1/project-partners-shares

Rafaelia Nikodimou, SHAREs+ main contact person for Cyprus

02-12 Lefkonos Str., 1011, Lefkosia, CY

Rafaelia.nikodimou@cea.org.cy