Turkey is set to expand its solar energy capacity by an additional 3.4 GW by the end of March 2025. This is part of a broader energy strategy to increase the country’s solar capacity from its current 12.4 GW to 16 GW.
Turkey solar capacity growth drives energy expansion
The Turkish government is actively working to boost its energy capacity by adding 3.4 GW of solar energy by the end of March 2025. This initiative is part of a broader effort to expand the country’s solar capacity from its current 12.4 GW to 16 GW. The Energy Market Regulatory Authority (EMRA) recently approved 890 MW of new solar power projects, with plans for an additional 2.52 GW in the coming months.
The new projects include 20 facilities in the Black Sea region, 60 in eastern Anatolia, 50 in southeastern Anatolia, and 15 in the Aegean region. This expansion is essential for Turkey to meet its growing energy needs and to ensure a stable and sustainable energy supply.
The Turkish government has been proactive in supporting renewable energy through various incentives. In 2013, Turkey introduced feed-in tariffs for renewable energy producers, providing a guaranteed price for electricity from renewable sources. This policy aimed to make renewable energy more competitive with traditional fossil fuels.
In 2019, Turkey launched its first Renewable Energy Resource Zones (YEKA) tender, attracting significant interest from international and domestic companies. The success of this tender led to further investment in solar energy, thereby encouraging the development of large-scale solar projects across the country.
Turkey solar capacity growth strengthens renewable leadership
Turkey’s efforts to expand its renewable energy capacity have made it a leader in the region. By 2023, the country had installed over 10 GW of solar capacity, making it the leading solar market in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. The government’s ambitious targets for 2030, which include increasing renewable energy’s share in the energy mix to 30%, underscore its commitment to sustainability and energy independence.
The expansion of solar energy in Turkey is not only about increasing capacity but also about integrating advanced technologies. The country has been investing in smart grid solutions, energy storage systems, and other innovations to enhance the efficiency and reliability of its renewable energy infrastructure.
These technologies will play a crucial role in managing the variability of solar power and ensuring a stable energy supply. Additionally, Turkey’s strategic location allows it to export renewable energy to neighboring countries, further strengthening its position as a regional energy hub.
Solar power and Turkey solar capacity growth in energy transition
Solar energy is a key component of Turkey’s energy transition strategy. The country aims to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels and decrease greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. By investing in solar energy, Turkey is not only addressing its domestic energy needs but also contributing to global efforts to combat climate change.
The expansion of solar energy capacity is expected to create thousands of jobs, particularly in the manufacturing and installation of solar panels. This growth will stimulate economic development in regions with high solar potential, creating new opportunities for local communities.
Turkey’s ambitious solar expansion plans are a testament to its commitment to renewable energy and sustainability. By adding 3.4 GW of solar capacity by March 2025, the country is laying a strong foundation for a cleaner and more secure energy future. Furthermore, with the strategic goal of reaching 21.6 GW by 2025, Turkey is not only meeting its national objectives but also contributing significantly to the global renewable energy landscape.
