Ankara: Trkiye’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has unveiled an ambitious renewable energy target, aiming to achieve 120,000 megawatts of solar and wind power capacity by 2035. This announcement is a key component of Trkiye’s 2053 net-zero target, as highlighted during an opening ceremony for renewable energy investments in Ankara.
According to Anadolu Agency, Erdogan emphasized the need to reduce permit times for wind and solar projects from 48 to 18 months, with plans to simplify regulations through parliamentary action. Trkiye currently stands fifth in Europe and 11th globally in renewable energy capacity, marking significant progress in the sector.
Erdogan underlined the importance of diversifying energy sources and enhancing technology efficiency. As of March, Trkiye’s installed power capacity had reached 118,185 megawatts, with renewables accounting for 60%. The country has seen remarkable growth in solar power capacity, rising from zero in 2005 to 21,833 megawatts.
Erdogan stated the goal of increasing solar and wind capacity to 120,000 megawatts by 2035, backed by $80 billion in investment. A green transmission infrastructure is being developed to support these clean energy goals, with plans to establish 5,000 megawatts of offshore wind capacity by 2035.
He cited projections showing Trkiye’s potential to generate substantial amounts of hydroelectric, wind, solar, and geothermal power. The government supports this growth through the Renewable Energy Resources Support Scheme, significantly increasing manufacturer numbers and job creation in the sector.
In 2024, Trkiye launched 6,182 electricity plants across all provinces, with an investment of about $5 billion and an installed capacity of 6,818 megawatts, predominantly from renewable sources. These investments are expected to save $1.3 billion in imported natural gas costs and have already reduced CO2 emissions by 12.5 million tons.
Erdogan praised the efforts contributing to these achievements and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to encouraging and supporting clean energy investments.