TotalEnergies, a prominent French oil supermajor and renewable energy developer, is set to construct a 100 MW solar power plant in Cyprus, a project representing a significant contribution to the island’s solar capacity amidst a competitive environment. This plant is expected to generate an estimated annual output of 160 GWh, which aligns with the electricity needs of approximately 33,000 households. The initiative is in conjunction with Universal Green Energies and will cover 83 hectares of land, previously earmarked for a golf course, in the Limassol district. Given the current grid instability caused by increased photovoltaic investments and insufficient energy storage, the project aims to address some of these challenges while adhering to environmental concerns, including the protection of local flora and fauna.
Despite the enthusiasm for renewable projects like that of TotalEnergies, local community members express apprehensions that the solar park may negatively impact local temperatures and indent concerns related to the original plan for a golf course. TotalEnergies is already obligated to mitigate environmental impacts, including preserving habitats for protected species and ensuring that construction does not occur on steep slopes or disrupt water streams. As of the end of the first quarter of 2025, the company has a gross renewable electricity capacity of 28 GW globally and aims to reach 100 GW by 2030, showcasing their growing commitment to sustainable energy solutions.