Energy consumption on the island showed almost no change last month, even as specific sectors experienced dramatic shifts in demand. According to the latest report from the Statistical Service of Cyprus (Cystat) released on Friday, March 27, 2026, total petroleum sales reached 111,922 tonnes, representing a marginal year on year increase of just 0.1%.
While the headline figure suggests a flat market, the underlying data reveals a sector in transition, with massive growth in international transport fuels offsetting a sharp decline in domestic heating and industrial oils.
Transport and Industry Growth
The most striking growth was seen in the maritime and aviation sectors, reflecting a busy month for the island’s ports and airports.
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Marine Fuel: Surged by 133.7%, signaling a major uptick in regional shipping activity.
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Aviation Kerosene: Rose by 24.9%, as air travel continued its expansion.
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Infrastructure: Asphalt sales jumped by 69.5%, indicating a ramp up in roadworks and construction projects.
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Motor Gasoline: Petrol sales saw a steady 5.0% increase compared to February 2025.
Heating and Residential Declines
In contrast, a milder winter or shifting consumer habits led to a collapse in demand for heating related fuels.
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Heating Oil & Kerosene: Dropped significantly by 37.0% and 48.0% respectively.
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LPG & Heavy Fuel Oil: Sales of liquefied petroleum gas fell by 27.8%, while heavy fuel oil plummeted by 28.0%.
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Light Fuel Oil: Experienced the sharpest decline in the report, falling by 54.0%.
Petrol station sales also felt the pinch, retreating by 5.8% year on year to 54,016 tonnes. This local downturn was a key driver in the overall 5.5% monthly drop in total sales compared to January 2026.
Inventory and Year to Date Performance
Despite the monthly dip, the broader trend for 2026 remains positive. For the first two months of the year combined, petroleum sales are up 5.5% compared to the same period in 2025.
Additionally, the island’s energy security appears well-positioned; total petroleum stocks rose by 7.3% by the end of February.
Source: news.cyprus-property-buyers.com