Türkiye’s energy future teeters between promise and vulnerability. With over 90% reliance on imported fossil fuels—crude oil, natural gas, and coal—its position in the global energy market remains fragile. This dependence is compounded by the geopolitical uncertainties of suppliers like Russia and Iran, both impacted by sanctions, regional conflicts, and instability. 

Diversifying Türkiye’s energy mix is no longer a luxury—it is a necessity. While commendable progress has been made in renewable energy, with investments in wind, solar, and hydropower, these efforts are not enough to satisfy Türkiye’s growing energy demands. Fossil fuels are projected to account for over 70% of the country’s consumption by 2035. Achieving meaningful diversification will require more than incremental progress; it demands bold, strategic shifts.

The discovery of gas fields in the Black Sea offers a glimmer of hope. Fast-tracking domestic production is a significant step toward reducing dependency on imports. Additionally, expanding the liquefied natural gas (LNG) infrastructure, particularly through floating storage and regasification units (FSRUs), offers a degree of flexibility. The development of nuclear energy, spearheaded by the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, further strengthens Türkiye’s energy portfolio by providing a reliable, low-carbon energy source.

However, these initiatives alone are not enough. Türkiye’s energy future relies heavily on strategic international collaborations. The key lies in navigating complex geopolitical relationships while positioning itself as a crucial energy hub for Europe.

You may read evaluation note from here.