Turkey Targets 80GW Solar, 40GW Wind Power by 2035

Turkey is betting big on sunshine and wind to power its future, setting targets that could make it a renewable energy powerhouse in the next decade.

The country's technology and trade ministers announced plans to reach 80 gigawatts of solar capacity and 40 gigawatts of wind power by 2035. That's more than triple their current solar installation of 23 gigawatts and triple their wind capacity of 13 gigawatts.

Industry and Technology Minister Mehmet Fatih Kacir confirmed green transformation remains Turkey's top strategic priority. The nation has already poured $200 billion into energy infrastructure under current leadership, while transportation received another $300 billion in investment.

Foreign investors have taken notice. Turkey attracted $300 billion in foreign direct investment over the past 23 years, drawn by the country's commitment to sustainable development and streamlined business processes.

Trade Minister Omer Bolat highlighted how Turkey aligned its industrial regulations with EU environmental standards since 2021. The government worked closely with private companies to help cement, steel, fertilizer, energy, and textile industries meet new green criteria without losing competitiveness.

The clean energy push goes beyond solar and wind. The Russian-powered Akkuyu Nuclear Plant will begin production later this year, Turkey's first nuclear facility. Plans are already in motion for two more nuclear investments, targeting 20 gigawatts from conventional nuclear plants and 50 gigawatts through small modular reactors.

To attract global talent and investment, Turkey launched the Tech Visa program that eliminated bureaucratic roadblocks for digital entrepreneurs. International investors can now establish businesses remotely using just passport verification, with access to virtual offices and automated accounting systems.

The program brought over 5,000 tech professionals to Turkey in its first year, processing work permits in just two weeks.

The Ripple Effect

Turkey's renewable energy expansion could ripple across the entire region. As the country builds out clean power infrastructure, it positions itself as a bridge between Europe and Asia for green technology transfer and sustainable development expertise.

The investments create thousands of jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of solar panels and wind turbines. Local communities near renewable projects gain access to cleaner air and new economic opportunities beyond traditional industries.

A nation of 85 million people is proving that economic growth and environmental responsibility can power forward together.