Turkey Hits 62% Renewable Energy in Major Green Shift

Turkey is proving that rapid clean energy transformation isn't just possible—it's happening right now.

The country's total electricity capacity reached 122 gigawatts in 2025, with renewable energy sources making up 62% of that total, according to the SHURA Energy Transition Center. Even more impressive: of the 6.3 gigawatts of new power capacity added last year, renewables accounted for 99% of it.

Solar power led the charge with a massive 4.9 gigawatt increase, while wind power added another 1.7 gigawatts. Meanwhile, natural gas capacity actually declined by 684 megawatts, showing Turkey's commitment to phasing out fossil fuels.

The shift is reshaping how Turkey generates electricity day to day. Solar and wind combined now produce more than 20% of the country's total electricity, reaching 24.6% when geothermal is included. That's a remarkable achievement for variable renewable sources that depend on weather conditions.

The country's appetite for clean energy is growing too. Turkey set a new daily electricity demand record on July 29, hitting 1,244 gigawatt hours as temperatures climbed and cooling needs increased.

The Ripple Effect

Turkey's clean energy boom is creating momentum that extends far beyond reduced emissions. The rapid buildout is generating jobs, reducing the country's dependence on imported fossil fuels, and positioning Turkey as a regional leader in renewable technology.

The transformation is also driving innovation in grid management and energy storage. SHURA noted that hybrid power plants combining renewables with battery storage are helping the system handle more variable solar and wind power smoothly.

The success is attracting global attention and investment. With coal plant projects remaining dormant and their future uncertain, the market signal is clear: Turkey's energy future is renewable.

Looking ahead, Turkey has set an ambitious target of 120 gigawatts of combined solar and wind capacity by 2035. That means adding an average of 8 gigawatts every year for the next decade. SHURA estimates this clean energy transformation will require about $15 billion in annual investments.

The country does face some growing pains. Grid constraints are creating bottlenecks, especially for rooftop solar installations, and coal-dependent regions will need support as the transition continues. But these are challenges of success, not failure.

One other energy shift is coming: Turkey's first nuclear reactor at Akkuyu is expected to come online this year, adding 1.2 gigawatts of carbon-free baseload power. Combined with the renewable surge, Turkey is building a diverse, clean energy system.

From 62% renewable capacity today to a fully decarbonized electricity sector targeted for 2053, Turkey is writing a playbook that other developing nations are watching closely—and it's working.