Electricity for North Cyprus from Türkiye

Turkey supplies electricity to Northern Cyprus primarily through undersea electricity cables, a major infrastructure project aimed at enhancing energy security and reducing dependency on expensive and polluting diesel-powered generation on the island.

Key Details:

1. Undersea Cable Project:

   • A submarine power cable is being developed between mainland Türkiye and Northern Cyprus.

   • The cable will transmit high-voltage direct current (HVDC), which is more efficient over long distances under the sea.

   • This connection is similar in concept to those used to link countries in Europe, like the UK-France interconnector.

   

2. Purpose:

   • To provide a stable, uninterrupted electricity supply to Northern Cyprus.

   • To reduce electricity costs by importing cheaper power from Türkiye .

   • To lower carbon emissions by reducing reliance on diesel generators.

   • To eventually allow integration into regional electricity markets, which could benefit both sides of Cyprus if political agreements are reached.

   
   

3. Status (as of recent updates):

   • The project has been planned for several years and is strongly backed by the Turkish government.

   • While planning and approvals are largely complete, construction timelines and operational status vary depending on political and financial conditions.

   
   

4. Political Implications:

   • The cable is part of Türkiye’s broader strategy to integrate Northern Cyprus more tightly with its own infrastructure (also seen in water pipeline projects).

   • Türkiye’s initiative to supply electricity to Northern Cyprus occurs amidst heightened tensions over energy projects in the Eastern Mediterranean. Notably, Türkiye has expressed strong opposition to the Great Sea Interconnector (GSI), a proposed undersea electricity cable connecting Greece, Cyprus, and Israel. Turkey contends that such projects infringe upon its maritime rights and those of the TRNC. 

   • In March 2025, the Greek government suspended the GSI project, citing Turkish objections and the deployment of Turkish naval forces in the area.  This development underscores the complex interplay between energy infrastructure projects and regional geopolitical disputes.

Future Outlook

The undersea electricity cable between Turkey and Northern Cyprus remains a strategic priority for both parties. However, the project's advancement is contingent upon navigating the intricate geopolitical landscape of the Eastern Mediterranean. Continued diplomatic engagement and regional cooperation will be essential to realize the project's objectives and contribute to the energy stability of Northern Cyprus.