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Energy policy – Energy Country Profile

Energy Policy

The Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources revealed its new 2019 - 2023 Strategic Plan (only available in Turkish) in May 2020, which puts a strong focus on expanding the use of coal and hydropower in the country, while other renewables (solar and wind) remain underutilized. The Ministry has set a target to add an additional 3,746 MW of energy from hydropower plants by 2023, while coal power production should reach 4,460 MW by 2023.

The former plan, 2015-2019 Strategic Plan, of the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources (MENR) set out overarching targets for the security of supply, the use of energy saving measures and natural energy sources. In total, 8 themes, 16 goals and 62 objectives were laid out and should all be implemented while considering aspects of environmental, economic and social sustainability. The main priorities included the promotion of domestic energy sources, the improvement of the investment environment including support of the private sector and overall research and development. Some objectives included:

  • natural gas storage capacity should meet 20% of the annual consumption in the long-term
  • electricity generation from domestic coal shall be increased to 60 billion kWh annually by the end of the planning period
  • domestic oil production should cover 13.6% of consumption
  • share of natural gas in electricity generation should be reduced to 38% by the end of the planning period
  • reduction of losses and rate of illegal consumption in electricity distribution to 10%
  • energy efficiency in central and district buildings#of the MENR and selected governmental buildings will be increased by 20% (base year 2013)

Turkey's energy policy and strategy aims to ensure energy security, reduce dependence on fossil fuels, and increase the share of renewable energy sources. The country's energy mix includes coal, gas, oil, and nuclear, as well as renewable energy sources such as wind, solar, hydro, geothermal, and biomass. Turkey has set a target of increasing the share of renewable energy in its electricity generation to 30% by 2023.

To achieve this goal, Turkey has implemented various measures to support the development of renewable energy, including feed-in tariffs, green certificates, and tax incentives for investors. The country is also investing in modernizing its energy infrastructure, including upgrading its electricity transmission and distribution networks.

In addition to promoting renewable energy, Turkey is also committed to improving energy efficiency. The country has implemented a range of measures to increase energy efficiency in buildings, industry, and transport, including financial incentives for energy-efficient investments and energy audits.

Overall, Turkey's energy policy and strategy aims to promote sustainable and secure energy supplies while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and supporting economic growth.

Last update: 07 2023