Small-scale RES projects of up to 400 kW that had undergone a bidding process for tariffs through a RES auction organized by the distribution network operator DEDDIE/HEDNO to cover the Cyclades, along with equivalent auctions for projects in the Peloponnese and Crete, are nearing readiness for operation.

A follow-up procedure offering finalized connection terms to these Cyclades RES projects has begun and is expected to be completed next week, when all 51 projects for which successful bids had been submitted to the Cyclades auction should have received their connection terms, energypress sources informed. These 51 projects represent a total capacity of 18 MW, the sources added.

The energy ministry, as previously reported, has decided to end administratively-set tariffs for small-scale RES projects a year ahead of schedule. A relevant bill is expected to soon be submitted to Parliament.

Under the resulting system, investors behind new RES projects will need to participate in RES auctions to secure their tariffs, which will be lower compared to administratively-set tariffs.

However, small-scale RES projects in the Cyclades will be exempted from the new system and will still be able to secure administratively-set tariff agreements with DAPEEP, the RES market operator. These projects will also be exempted from substantial grid-injection cut rules.

The outcome of RES auctions concerning small-scale projects in the Peloponnese and Crete has been put on hold in anticipation of a court ruling following charges filed by plaintiffs alleging foul play.