Cyprus on form for first wind farm
Cyprus’ first wind farm has gotten another step closer following a ground breaking ceremony in the Orites area of Kouklia and once operational the project has the potential to produce 82 MW from 41 wind turbines, producing almost 10% of the island’s total energy generation capacity.
The energy project will also contribute to the government’s target of producing 13% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2020 – With the wind farm having a capacity of 82 MW in its first phase, and an approved capacity for 140MW when complete.
The wind farm will be the first private sector power project in Cyprus benefiting from the new 20 year fixed rate tariff that has recently been approved by the government of the Republic of Cyprus and the European Commission.
Akis Ellinas, Chairman of DK Wind Supply made comment that at a time when climate change is reaching the top of political agendas, wind energy continues to be the only advanced technology which is ready and able to deliver renewable power on a large scale. He continued by saying that Cyprus is not one of the windiest places in the world, but is still committed to moving toward renewable energy, which consequently makes them work harder than others.
This project becomes the county’s biggest investment in renewable energy and will be the first wind energy investment in Cyprus, representing an investment amounting to €170 million, it is said.
Source;
Utilityweek.co.uk/ News/ Europe (Cyprus breaks ground for first wind farm-02.10.09)