Can Türkiye use untapped solar power to accelerate solar energy momentum?

Türkiye could utilize untapped capacities to advance solar energy momentum through floating, storage-integrated, hybrid and rooftop solar potential. The country has a pipeline of 33 GW in pre-licensed storage-integrated solar and wind projects, far exceeding the official 2030 target of 2.1 GW.

How much solar energy does Türkiye have?

Türkiye’s solar energy capacity doubled from 9.7 GW in July 2022 to exceed 19 GW by the end of 2024. By August 2024, the country had already exceeded the 18 GW target set for 2025 in the National Energy Plan (NEP) by the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources (MENR).

How did solar power affect gas imports in Türkiye in 2024?

In 2024 alone, Türkiye’s total solar generation displaced gas imports worth $1.7 billion, an increase of 22% year-on-year due to the huge growth in solar generation and despite an 18% drop in average natural gas prices in 2024 compared to 2023.

How big is Türkiye's energy storage capacity?

Türkiye’s 35 GWh storage capacity accounts for grid-scale projects alone. Global energy storage investments have surpassed 150 GWh. Türkiye has already begun installations in Hungary, Bulgaria, and Spain, leveraging its geographic advantage close to Europe.

Are storage-integrated power plants possible in Türkiye?

While no grid-scale storage-integrated power plants are operational in Türkiye yet, the country has a robust pipeline of approximately 33 GW of storage-integrated wind and solar projects with pre-licensing periods extending until 2030. This strong investor interest highlights the potential of storage-integrated power plants.

Can Türkiye achieve a more ambitious growth trajectory in battery storage?

The scale of storage-integrated solar capacity alone demonstrates Türkiye’s potential to achieve a far more ambitious growth trajectory in battery storage, paving the way for stronger integration of renewable energy into the grid.