The role of renewables in future energy directions of Turkey

Turkey is an energy importing country; more than half of the energy requirement has been supplied by imports. Domestic oil and lignite reserves are limited and lignites are characterized by high ash, sulfur and moisture content. In this regard, renewable energy resources appear to be the one of the most efficient and effective solutions for sustainable energy development in Turkey. Turkey's geographical location has several advantages for extensive use of most of these renewable energy sources. Because of this and the fact that it has limited fossil fuel resources, a gradual shift from fossil fuels to renewables seems to be serious and the sole alternative for Turkey. This article presents the role of renewables in future directions in the Turkish energy sector. Hydropower and biomass are especially very important renewable energy sources for country's energy future. At present, the share of hydropower and biomass is as high as 30% in the primary energy production of Turkey. In the case of solar, geothermal and wind energy, there is an important potential for domestic heating and electricity generation. Therefore, governments and private sectors must increase and sustain funding for development of these renewable energy sources in Turkey.