Electricity restored to Greek holiday island

Greece's power company said Monday electricity had been restored to the island of Santorini, a popular tourist destination hit by nearly a week of major power cuts at the height of the holiday season. "The installation of all the necessary generators was concluded yesterday.... Now the island's electricity supply is fully ensured and covers all the needs of businesses and households," state company PPC said in a statement. The company had to rush in generators from the mainland after a sweeping power shortage last week caused by a fire at the island's main electricity plant that led to a series of power cuts. Tour operators criticised authorities for inaction but said holidaymakers were not yet cancelling trips. Local government officials have denounced the state of the electricity grid on Greek islands, especially problematic during the summer high season. There are currently 120,000 visitors on Santorini, one of Greece's premier travel destinations, renowned for its beautiful sunsets, breathtaking views and picturesque villages perched on rocky outcrops. Santorini, like the rest of the country, has seen a 10-percent increase in foreign tourist numbers this year, partly attributed to instability in other Mediterranean countries.