A nationwide inspection campaign by the Electricity Authority of Cyprus (EAC) Distribution System Operator has been underway since last Monday, targeting illegal installations and unauthorised expansions in photovoltaic systems.
According to Politis information, within the first 24 hours of checks, violations were identified in large commercial solar systems. These were detected through EAC monitoring systems, as well as via smart meters and satellite data.
The installations were immediately disconnected from the EAC grid, while those involved are required to pay an investigation fee of €225 and may face substantial fines if the violations are confirmed.
The breaches identified include:
- Unauthorised expansion of photovoltaic systems beyond approved capacity
- Illegal interventions in inverters aimed at increasing output
- Uncontrolled feed‑in of energy to the grid, affecting system stability
Such practices not only violate connection terms but can also cause technical disruptions and even lead to production curtailments for properly licensed systems.
Immediate disconnections
In cases involving large commercial photovoltaic systems where breaches were confirmed, installations were disconnected from the grid. As a result, owners must restart the licensing process from scratch.
According to the Distribution System Operator, illegal installations pose risks to user safety and property, as they have not undergone the required checks. They may also create serious problems for the grid, affecting the reliability and stability of the electricity system. Unauthorised connections or modifications present significant risks to safety, system reliability and accurate energy forecasting.
Enforcement measures
Given the seriousness of the situation, the Distribution System Operator has implemented the following measures:
- Immediate disconnection of non‑compliant photovoltaic installations, as their certification becomes invalid
- Imposition of investigation costs and potential referral of cases to police authorities
- Notification of the Energy Regulatory Authority and the Electromechanical Services Department, with the possibility of further penalties or fines
Legal framework
These measures are considered necessary, as such interventions constitute violations of key provisions of electricity legislation.
Failure to apply for approval and obtain authorisation before any addition or modification constitutes a breach of connection rules and distribution procedures.
The Distribution System Operator has also urged consumers who have illegally installed renewable energy units or proceeded with unauthorised capacity increases to remove the illegal additions or extensions.
For any legalisation of such works, a formal application must be submitted to the Distribution System Operator.
