Türkiye Member Committee

ENERGY ISSUES IN MOTION 

Türkiye’s evolving energy landscape is shaped by a dynamic interplay of geopolitical factors, economic pressures, and sustainability goals. The country’s unique position as a bridge between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East further influences its energy policies and strategies. The increasing global emphasis on decarbonization, energy independence, and technological innovation presents both challenges and opportunities for Türkiye. The 2025 World Energy Issues Monitor for Türkiye highlights critical uncertainties and key action priorities that are shaping the country’s energy transition. Among these are energy security concerns stemming from geopolitical volatility, the need for greater investment in domestic energy resources, and the ongoing push for renewable energy expansion. 

One of Türkiye’s top critical uncertainties is commodity price volatility, which has a direct impact on economic stability. As a country reliant on energy imports, fluctuations in global oil and gas prices affect electricity costs and industrial production. Inflation and currency depreciation have further exacerbated energy affordability concerns. Policymakers are exploring solutions such as long-term gas contracts, increasing domestic production, and investing in energy storage technologies to mitigate price shocks. 

A major action priority in Türkiye is expanding and modernizing the electricity transmission grid. The growing share of renewables, particularly solar and wind, requires an advanced grid infrastructure to ensure reliability. Smart grids, digital monitoring, and automation are being introduced to improve efficiency and reduce transmission losses. Investment in energy storage solutions, such as battery storage and pumped hydro, is also essential to maintain grid stability in the face of variable renewable generation. 

Additionally, Türkiye has ramped up its nuclear energy development as part of its strategy to enhance energy security and diversify its energy mix. The Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, set to become operational in phases, will significantly contribute to Türkiye’s electricity supply, reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels. Future investments in small modular reactors (SMRs) and additional nuclear plants are being considered to further strengthen energy independence. 

Türkiye’s natural gas infrastructure is also undergoing significant expansion to meet growing demand. The Tuz Gölü and Silivri underground gas storage facilities are being upgraded to enhance supply security, particularly in times of geopolitical uncertainty. With Türkiye’s strategic position as a transit hub for natural gas, further investments in liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminals and interconnectors are improving flexibility in sourcing energy supplies. 

FROM BLIND SPOTS TO BRIGHT SPOTS 

One key blind spot in Türkiye’s energy landscape is insufficient investment in domestic oil and gas exploration. Although the country has made strides in reducing import dependence through renewable energy expansion, it still relies on external sources for a significant portion of its oil and natural gas needs. Recent discoveries in the Black Sea and increasing onshore exploration efforts indicate progress, but further investment is required to fully capitalize on these resources. Enhanced exploration in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Thrace region could potentially strengthen Türkiye’s energy independence. 

Another challenge is natural gas storage capacity. Türkiye plays a strategic role as a transit country for gas supplies to Europe, yet its domestic storage facilities need expansion to improve energy security during supply disruptions. Projects such as the Silivri and Tuz Gölü underground gas storage facilities are being expanded to increase storage capacity, but more investment is necessary to meet growing demand and ensure resilience against geopolitical supply risks. 

On the bright side, Türkiye has emerged as a leader in renewable energy development. The country ranks among the top producers of wind and solar power in the region, with ambitious targets for further growth. The YEKA (Renewable Energy Resource Areas) program has successfully attracted foreign and domestic investment in large-scale renewable projects. The expansion of distributed solar energy systems and incentives for rooftop solar installations are also enhancing energy access and affordability. 

Türkiye is also making significant progress in energy efficiency policies, targeting reductions in industrial energy consumption and household energy waste. Programs such as Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) for buildings, smart metering systems, and efficiency standards for industrial equipment are driving sustainability efforts. The country’s National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (NEEAP) aims to achieve substantial energy savings across multiple sectors. 

ADDRESSING CRITICAL UNCERTAINTIES TO BALANCE THE WORLD ENERGY TRILEMMA 

To ensure energy security, Türkiye must address the uncertainties surrounding geopolitical risks and supply chain disruptions. Its geographical position as a bridge between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East makes it vulnerable to regional conflicts that can impact energy imports and exports. Türkiye has responded by diversifying its energy supply sources, including developing LNG terminals, strengthening relations with alternative suppliers, and expanding pipeline infrastructure such as the Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP). 

In terms of energy equity, Türkiye is prioritizing investments in infrastructure to ensure energy access for all regions, including remote and rural areas. The expansion of off-grid renewable energy solutions, mini-grids, and rural electrification projects is helping bridge the energy access gap. Additionally, energy efficiency measures and subsidy programs are being enhanced to make electricity and gas more affordable for low-income households. 

For environmental sustainability, Türkiye is increasing its focus on climate adaptation and the circular economy. Sustainable urban planning, industrial recycling programs, and waste-to-energy initiatives are being implemented to reduce carbon emissions and promote resource efficiency. The country is also exploring carbon pricing mechanisms and emissions trading systems to encourage cleaner energy production. 

Türkiye is investing in hydrogen and alternative fuels as part of its long-term energy transition strategy. Pilot projects on green hydrogen production are being explored to integrate hydrogen into industrial processes and transportation. The development of biofuels, synthetic fuels, and electric vehicle infrastructure will further support decarbonization efforts. 

As the global energy landscape shifts towards decarbonization, Türkiye is also considering participation in regional carbon trading markets and aligning its policies with EU Green Deal regulations. The introduction of a national carbon pricing framework could encourage industries to adopt cleaner technologies and reduce emissions in line with international climate commitments. 

In conclusion, Türkiye’s energy sector is undergoing a transformative shift driven by security, equity, and sustainability considerations. Türkiye is well-positioned to achieve a resilient and sustainable energy future. With continuous investment and innovation, Türkiye can further solidify its role as a key energy player in the region and beyond. 

Acknowledgements

Turkey Member Committee