Renewable energy for low carbon economy and sustainable development in Turkey

Abstract

Global energy production is growing fastly and renewable energy technologies such as wind, biomass, hydropower, geothermal and solar are finally showing maturity. With respect to global environmental issues, Turkey’s carbon dioxide emissions have grown along with its energy consumption. States have played a leading role in protecting the environment by reducing emissions of greenhouse gases. In this regard, renewable energy resources appear to be the one of the most efficient and effective solutions for low carbon economy and sustainable energy development in Turkey. Turkey’s geographical location has several advantages for extensive use of most of these clean energy sources. In the past decade, Turkey has seen significant growth in renewable energy. In particular, renewable electricity has nearly tripled in the last decade, and its share in total power generation reached 52% in 2020. Turkey aims to continue to promote the expansion of renewable energy resources and will commission 10 gigawatts (GW) each of solar and wind capacity in the period 2017-27. In accordance with forecasts, until 2023 and 2027, the government expects that 76% and 61% of the additional capacity will come from renewable resources, respectively. Turkey has also realised strong potential for growth in geothermal energy, including for power generation, heating and in the agricultural sector. Under the Renewable Energy Support Mechanism (YEKDEM), Turkey offers feed-in tariffs for renewable power plants, including wind, solar, biomass, hydro and geothermal. Additional support is provided if plant components are manufactured in Turkey. The scheme will expire at the end of 2020 and the government is currently deciding on a new mechanism to replace it. This study shows that there is enough renewable energy potential in Turkey for electricity generation. Especially hydropower, biomass, solar and wind are very good.