Record-breaking surge in renewable energy production observed in June
In June 2021, Turkey's renewable energy sector experienced a significant surge, with the country generating a total of 28.38 billion kilowatt-hours of electricity. This impressive figure represents a 14.9 billion kWh increase from renewable sources, accounting for 52.5 percent of the month's total production.
The renewable energy mix was dominated by hydropower, which contributed around a third of the renewable installed capacity and generation. Wind and solar energy, however, were the next largest components, each growing rapidly. Wind power had an installed capacity of 13,465 megawatts, while solar power reached 22,937 MW. Combined, wind and solar generation totaled 8.4 billion kWh, accounting for 29.6 percent of the month's electricity production.
Geothermal and biomass were smaller but notable contributors, with geothermal installed capacity at 1,734 MW and biomass at 2,399 MW. These sources combined for a few percent of generation.
Despite the growth in renewable energy, Turkey's energy import bill increased by 0.8 percent to $4.59 billion in June, compared to the same month last year. Crude oil imports saw a 2.8 percent increase to 2.92 million tons in the month. Energy accounted for 16 percent of the overall import figures in Turkey in June. However, 18.4 billion kWh came from domestic sources, indicating a growing reliance on homegrown renewable energy.
The total installed electricity capacity in Turkey reached 119,632 MW, with renewable sources accounting for 60.9 percent of the total. This reflects Turkey's strategy to expand renewables significantly by 2035, investing heavily in wind and solar, alongside plans for nuclear power expansion.
It is worth noting that hydropower generation can vary seasonally and was somewhat constrained during dry periods to preserve water resources. Gas-fired generation often complements renewables to ensure grid stability during peak demand and low renewable output periods.
The exact figures for June 2021 show hydropower making up roughly a third of the renewable installed capacity and generation, with wind and solar as the next largest components. This mix reflects the country's commitment to a sustainable energy future and its efforts to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and imports.
Sources:
- Official Turkish Energy Reports
- Third-party analyses available up to mid-2023
The renewable energy industry in Turkey demonstrated substantial growth in June 2021, with finance allocated towards wind and solar energy notably increasing. Combined, wind and solar power accounted for approximately one-third of the month's renewable energy generation.
Investments in geothermal and biomass energy sources also contributed to the growth of renewable energy in Turkey, although to a lesser extent, making up a few percent of the month's electricity production. Despite this growth, Turkey's energy import bill and crude oil imports increased in June 2021, confirming a need for continued investment in renewable energy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and imports.
