How EAC Net Metering Works in Cyprus: 2026 Guide

Overview

Net metering is the mechanism that makes rooftop solar financially compelling in Cyprus. Instead of letting surplus generation go to waste, EAC (Electricity Authority of Cyprus) credits it against your future consumption at a defined rate. Understanding how that credit system actually works — and how to optimise around it — can add hundreds of euros to your annual savings.

The Basic Mechanic

When your solar panels generate more electricity than your home is using at that moment, the excess flows back through your meter into the EAC grid. Your smart meter records this export. At billing time, EAC offsets your imports against your exports.

In Cyprus, the net metering scheme operates on a 12-month rolling settlement period. Credits accumulated in summer — when Cyprus sun is abundant — can offset winter consumption when generation drops. At the end of each 12-month period, any remaining unused credits are settled at a lower administrative rate, not carried forward indefinitely.

Current EAC Tariff Rates (2026)

EAC residential tariffs are structured in consumption bands. The rates below are indicative for the standard domestic tariff (Τιμολόγιο Α) as of early 2026:

→ Curious what solar would actually put back in your pocket? Run a free 60-second estimate.

Note: the export credit rate is fixed regardless of which band your imports fall in. This means the net value of your surplus is highest when it offsets consumption in the upper bands.

A Real Monthly Billing Example

Let's take a Limassol household in July with a 6 kWp system:

• Total solar generation: 900 kWh
• Home consumption (A/C, pool pump, appliances): 750 kWh
• Self-consumed directly: 600 kWh
• Exported to grid: 300 kWh
• Imported from grid (evening/night): 150 kWh

Bill calculation:

• Import charge: 150 kWh × €0.179 = €26.85
• Export credit: 300 kWh × €0.100 = €30.00
• Net bill: €26.85 − €30.00 = −€3.15 (a credit on your account)

In peak summer months, many Cyprus solar households run a negative bill — effectively being paid by EAC for their surplus.

Seasonal Dynamics: Summer Surplus, Winter Draw

Cyprus irradiance peaks in June and July (260–280 kWh/m² per month) and troughs in December (90 kWh/m²). A well-sized system in Cyprus will accumulate significant credits through April–September and draw them down through October–March.

This seasonal pattern is why system sizing matters. A system sized purely for winter self-sufficiency will generate massive summer surplus that may expire at the end of the 12-month window. A system sized for summer generation will leave winter bills partially uncovered.

Most installers and the Comparisun tool will help you find the optimal size that maximises annual credit utilisation without over-exporting. You can get instant solar offers in Cyprus to see system size recommendations alongside grant estimates.

→ Before you read on — see what payback looks like for your roof in under a minute.

How to Register for EAC Net Metering

1. Complete your solar installation with an MEC-registered installer
2. Installer submits commissioning report to EAC on your behalf
3. EAC upgrades your meter to a bidirectional smart meter (no cost to you)
4. Your account is registered on the net metering tariff — typically within 4–6 weeks of installation completion
5. From your first billing cycle under the new meter, exports are credited automatically

Tips to Maximise Net Metering Value

• Run high-load appliances during peak solar hours (10:00–15:00) to maximise self-consumption rather than exporting
• Programme your pool pump and washing machine to run midday
• Consider a battery if your daytime consumption is low — batteries capture midday surplus and discharge it in the evening, reducing your night-time imports
• Track your 12-month credit balance via the EAC online portal — avoid letting large credits expire at year-end

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