Significant Growth in Renewable Energy
Türkiye has achieved a major milestone in its renewable energy sector, with the combined installed capacity of solar and wind power exceeding 40,000 megawatts (MW) as of January 2026. Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar highlighted this progress, noting that the nation has realized one-third of its 2035 goal of reaching 120,000 MW in solar and wind capacity. Over the past 23 years, Türkiye has undergone what Bayraktar described as a “quiet revolution” in renewables, growing nearly from zero to surpass the 40 GW threshold today.
Current Electricity Capacity and Renewable Share
By the end of January 2026, Türkiye’s total installed electricity capacity reached 123,284 MW. Of this, renewable energy sources account for 77,114 MW, representing 62.5% of total capacity. Solar energy contributes 25,827 MW (20.9%) and wind energy provides 14,862 MW (12.1%), together making up 33% of the country’s total installed power.
Breakdown of Energy Sources
| Source | Installed Capacity (MW) | Share (%) |
|---|---|---|
| Hydroelectric | 32,324 | 26.2 |
| Solar | 25,827 | 20.9 |
| Natural Gas | 24,165 | 19.6 |
| Wind | 14,862 | 12.1 |
| Domestic Coal | 11,550 | 9.4 |
| Imported Coal | 10,456 | 8.5 |
| Biomass | 2,341 | 1.9 |
| Geothermal | 1,759 | 1.4 |
| Total | 123,284 | 100 |
Path to 2035: YEKA and International Partnerships
To achieve the 120 GW target by 2035, Türkiye is implementing various models, including the YEKA (Renewable Energy Resource Areas) program. In the previous year, 3,800 MW of capacity was allocated through YEKA tenders. The ministry plans to organize at least 2,000 MW of YEKA tenders each year moving forward. Additionally, there is growing interest from industrial consumers in self-consumption solar projects, with 3,500 MW of capacity announced for allocation to such projects in January, prioritizing public institutions and strategic sectors.
International cooperation is also a key part of Türkiye’s strategy. Recently, a significant agreement with Saudi Arabia was reached, involving the construction of 5,000 MW of solar and wind power plants in Türkiye. The initial phase includes 2,000 MW of solar projects, which will provide electricity at fixed, competitive prices for 25 years. Minister Bayraktar emphasized that such agreements will continue to advance Türkiye’s installed capacity and energy security.
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