Sustainable Energy Investments in Türkiye: Progress and Opportunities

Overview of Achievements and Capacity Growth

Türkiye made remarkable progress in its renewable energy transformation throughout 2024-2025. By the end of the year, the country’s total installed power capacity reached 115.9 GW, with renewable sources accounting for 59 percent of this total — a three-point increase from the previous year.

During 2024, 6,818 MW of new power capacity was commissioned, and 98 percent of this consisted of renewable energy resources. Among these new additions were 4,280.9 MW from solar energy, 1,058 MW from wind energy, and 240.5 MW from hydropower projects.

Growth in the Solar Energy Sector

Türkiye achieved its 2025 solar energy target of 18 GW as early as August 2024, and by year-end, the installed solar capacity surpassed 19.6 GW. This strong performance underscores the rapid pace and attractiveness of solar investments in the country.

Developments in Wind Energy

Türkiye’s total wind energy capacity approached 14,000 MW in 2024, with 1,310 MW of new capacity added during the year. In terms of regional distribution, the Marmara region leads with over 6,000 MW, followed by the Aegean region with more than 4,000 MW. The top five provinces for wind energy capacity are İzmir, Balıkesir, Çanakkale, İstanbul, and Manisa.

Government Targets and Energy Plans for 2026

Capacity Goals

Türkiye’s public sector targets for 2025 include additional capacity increases of 5 GW in solar power and 2–3 GW in wind power. Under new Renewable Energy Resource Area (YEKA) tenders, the government aims to allocate 800 MW for solar and 1,200 MW for wind energy projects.

Infrastructure Development

The country plans to extend its energy transmission infrastructure by 688 kilometers and enhance grid resilience. Battery energy storage capacity is also expected to reach 1 GW, an important step toward greater energy flexibility and reliability.

Energy Storage: Expanding Market Potential

Türkiye currently has preliminary licenses for 33 GW of hybrid wind and solar projects with integrated storage systems — far beyond the official 2030 battery storage target of 2.1 GW. Storage-integrated wind farms (so-called hybrid RES projects) became a key investment trend in 2024.

This segment presents a significant opportunity for investors interested in energy technology and smart grid solutions.

Financing Needs and Investment Requirements

Türkiye’s electricity sector alone requires approximately USD 15 billion in annual investment to maintain its energy transition momentum. Transparent markets and predictable policy frameworks will be essential to attract both local and foreign investors and secure long-term financing.

Economic Impact and Energy Independence

Renewable energy developments have strengthened Türkiye’s economic resilience and reduced dependency on imported energy sources. Over the last two and a half years, solar and wind generation have helped the nation avoid an estimated USD 15 billion in natural gas imports.

In 2024, 46 percent of Türkiye’s total electricity generation came from renewable resources, with wind energy representing 11.34 percent of the total mix.

Vision for 2035: Long-Term Goals

By 2035, Türkiye aims to reach 48,000 MW of installed wind capacity and boost the share of renewables in its total installed capacity to 60 percent. These milestones are aligned with broader carbon neutrality and energy independence objectives outlined in national strategic plans.

Key Opportunities for International Entrepreneurs

– participation in YEKA tenders: annual auctions of at least 2 GW of capacity are scheduled from 2025 onward
– investment in storage-based energy projects: growing market supported by policy incentives
– infrastructure development: new transmission line projects totaling 688 km open contracting opportunities
– technology and R&D: Türkiye offers competitive advantages in wind turbine and solar panel manufacturing due to falling costs and strong local supply chains

Türkiye’s Position in the Global Market

Türkiye now ranks fifth in Europe and eleventh globally in terms of installed renewable capacity. This achievement highlights the country’s strategic position as a dynamic and competitive market for green energy investments in the broader Eurasian region.

For investors and entrepreneurs, Türkiye’s combination of government support, strong market fundamentals, and growing energy demand make it one of the most promising renewable investment destinations worldwide.