Schmid Pekintaş to launch 5 GW Turkey solar cell production by March 2026
Turkey’s renewable energy landscape is set for a monumental leap forward as Schmid Pekintaş announces its plan to establish a 5-gigawatt (GW) solar cell production facility. The ambitious project, slated to begin operations by March 2026 in the Düzce Beyköy 2nd Organised Industrial Zone, marks a pivotal moment for the nation’s domestic manufacturing capabilities and its green energy transition.
This initiative represents a total investment of USD 500 million, positioning Turkey to become a significant player in the global clean energy supply chain. By localizing the production of high-efficiency solar cells, the project aims to reduce reliance on imports and strengthen the entire domestic solar industry.
A Landmark Investment in Turkey solar cell production
At the heart of this development is the production of solar cells using entirely domestic and national technology. This focus is a cornerstone of the project, designed to supply Turkish solar panel manufacturers with high-quality, locally-made core components. Schmid Pekintaş, which has been active in solar panel production since 2013, is now vertically integrating its operations, moving from assembly to the foundational technology of cell manufacturing.
The scale of the 5 GW facility is transformative, promising to significantly boost the country’s capacity for producing clean energy equipment and contributing directly to its energy security and sustainability goals. The project has received strategic backing from the highest levels, including the Ministry of Industry and Technology and the President of Turkey, highlighting its national importance.
Fueling Growth with Strategic Financing for Turkey solar cell production
Making a project of this magnitude a reality requires substantial financial backing. In a significant vote of confidence, İşbank and the Industrial Development Bank of Turkey (TSKB) have come together to provide a EUR 100 million co-financing package. This 10-year loan was extended under the Technology and Innovation Funding Programme (HIT-30), a program designed to support high-tech, value-added investments in the country.
According to a statement from TSKB, this financing is crucial for launching the high-tech solar cell investment and accelerating Turkey’s green transformation. The support from two of the nation’s leading financial institutions underscores the project’s viability and its alignment with national economic and environmental objectives.
Bolstering Turkey’s Green Energy Ambitions with solar cell production
The Schmid Pekintaş solar cell plant is more than just an industrial facility; it’s a strategic asset for Turkey’s future. By building a robust domestic supply chain for solar components, the country can enhance its energy supply security, accelerate its transition away from fossil fuels, and create new economic opportunities.
This investment will not only meet the growing domestic demand for solar energy but also has the potential to turn Turkey into a key exporter of clean energy technology. As the world moves towards a more sustainable future, projects like this are critical for building a resilient, independent, and environmentally responsible energy sector. The launch of this facility in 2026 will be a milestone in Turkey’s journey to becoming a leader in renewable energy.
