Cyprus is steadily advancing its electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, with DC fast-charging stations emerging along highways and in service areas, complemented by AC chargers at supermarkets, shopping centres, hotels, and other public locations across the island.
As of early 2026, approximately 250 public charging stations are operational – including 10 new 100kW fast chargers activated in late 2025 – positioning Cyprus close to the EU-recommended 1:10 EV-to-charger ratio. The EV market share has grown from 0.69% in 2020 to 4% of new registrations in 2024, with momentum building toward higher figures in 2025 through sustained policy support. This progress is transforming EV ownership into a practical reality for drivers nationwide.
Subsidies and regulations drive expansion
Government incentives continue to drive the network’s growth. The “Grants Scheme for 1,000 Charging Points” provides a €3.7 million budget across its phases (Phase B: €1.85 million to be completed in 2026), covering 45-55% of eligible installation costs, with enhanced rates for remote and mountainous regions. These programmes have supported installations at numerous households and public sites, broadening access to charging options.
Supporting regulations add momentum
Since January 1, 2025, new commercial buildings with 20 or more parking spaces must include at least one EV charger, encouraging widespread adoption in retail and hospitality venues. Additionally, recent legislation imposing fines for parking in EV bays without charging has effectively reduced obstructions, improving reliability for users. The Electro-Mechanical Services (EMS) are building a National Access Point, which is an interactive map with all the public EV charging stations on the island, for better analysis and transparency to the public.
Network distribution and fast-charging progress
The charging network remains concentrated in urban areas: Limassol (75 stations), Nicosia (55), Famagusta (45), Paphos (40) and Larnaca (35), offering a mix of AC chargers (up to 22kW) for standard use and DC fast chargers (up to 150kW) for rapid top-ups. By the end of 2025, 10 new 100kW fast-charging stations had been activated at key public sites including hospitals, museums, and parks across Nicosia, Larnaca, Limassol, Paphos, Polis Chrysochous and Troodos. Funded by over €1 million from the Recovery and Resilience Facility (RRF), these operate under a five-year public contract. EU Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR) requirements will introduce high-power charging clusters every 60km on major TEN-T corridors by 2030, with minimum 400kW capacities, further strengthening intercity travel.
Innovation and grid optimisation
Research initiatives at universities and centres are exploring Demand-Side Management (DSM) and Vehicle-to-Grid (V2G) technologies to align EV charging with peak solar production. Cyprus’ renewable energy share reached 28% of the mix in 2025 (above the EU average of 25%), supported by extensive photovoltaic installations. Dynamic pricing in the liberalised electricity market encourages off-peak charging, while energy storage grants will help stabilise the grid ahead of an anticipated 10,000 EVs by 2028. These efforts position EVs to contribute actively, potentially returning power to homes or the grid during high-demand periods.
Building user awareness
Education plays a pivotal role in adoption. The Cyprus E-Mobility Association is developing its 2026 campaigns, including workshops to dispel myths such as rapid battery degradation. As e-mobility relies on digital tools, users must learn essentials like app-based station activation, proper cable connections, and navigating occasional parking fees. Unlike traditional refuelling, this ecosystem demands familiarity with technology – campaigns aim to make the experience straightforward and user-friendly.
Persistent challenges and future priorities
Grid connection costs remain a significant obstacle, often exceeding €20,000 per site for high-power setups and disproportionately affecting public and municipal locations. Without targeted support, expansions risk suboptimal infrastructure, increasing downtime or safety concerns. Ongoing advocacy seeks cost reductions and streamlined approvals to sustain quality growth into 2026. Rural areas, representing about 15-20% of coverage, also require focused investment.
Practical guidance and recommendations
Prospective EV owners should use apps to locate stations, be aware of different charging rate structures and parking fees, prioritise fast chargers for efficiency and take advantage of subsidies. With Cyprus’ compact geography – rarely exceeding two-hour drives – strategic planning minimises concerns over range. Cyprus’ EV infrastructure is on a promising trajectory, blending policy, technology and education to create a reliable, sustainable mobility landscape. The island is well-poised to meet rising demand with a forward-thinking approach.
*Dinos Lefkaritis Jr., President, Cyprus E-Mobility Association & Head of E-Mobility
This interview first appeared in the February edition of GOLD magazine. Click here to view it.
