Energy resilience of defence infrastructure, artificial intelligence (AI), smart energy grids and the integration of renewable energy sources (RES) into military installations and operations were among the issues discussed during the 3rd Consultation Forum for Sustainable Energy in the Defence and Security Sector (CF SEDSS IV) and the 1st Energy Technology Solutions Exhibition, held in Nicosia from May 5 to 7.
The events were hosted by the Ministry of Defence in cooperation with the European Defence Agency (EDA), in the framework of Cyprus’ Presidency of the Council of the European Union. More than 180 experts and representatives from 26 EU member states attended, alongside academic and research institutions and companies specialising in innovative energy technologies.
The opening session was addressed by European Defence Agency Deputy Chief Executive Anders Sjöborg and Ministry of Defence Deputy Director-General Stelios Kountouris.
Frederick University professor Andreas Poullikkas delivered a keynote address on Cyprus’ emerging role as a strategic energy hub in the Eastern Mediterranean, focusing on electricity interconnections, hydrogen technologies and data centres.
Discussions also covered European funding tools and cooperation programmes in the fields of defence and energy. Particular emphasis was placed on emerging technologies, energy efficiency and clean energy solutions aimed at strengthening the sustainability and operational resilience of defence capabilities, in line with EU climate, energy and defence goals.
The conference and exhibition featured technologies including energy storage systems, microgrids, hybrid energy systems, renewable energy generation technologies and smart energy management applications.
Addresses were also delivered by Director of Armaments and Defence Capabilities Development Panayiotis Chatzipavlis and retired General Tom Middendorp, former Chief of Defence of the Netherlands and Chair of the International Military Council on Climate and Security.
According to the Ministry of Defence, hosting the CF SEDSS IV meeting in Nicosia highlighted Cyprus’ role in promoting European cooperation in defence, energy security and the green transition, contributing to broader EU efforts to strengthen strategic autonomy and operational resilience.