In collaboration with the World Bank Group, Turkey has launched an ambitious roadmap that seeks to build and expand its offshore wind industry, aspiring to achieve an installed capacity of 5GW by 2035, and potentially up to 7GW by 2040. This comprehensive strategy, part of the “Turkey – European Union Instrument for Pre-Accession (IPA) Energy Sector Programme Phase IV Project – Offshore Wind Support,” aims not only to harness Turkey’s natural resources but also to position the country as a critical player in the renewable energy sector between Europe and Asia.
Turkey’s Geographical and Industrial Advantages
Strategic Location and Favorable Offshore Wind Resources
Turkey’s unique geographical location and industrial strengths significantly enhance its potential for developing offshore wind energy. Situated between Europe and Asia, Turkey enjoys favorable offshore wind resources, especially near high-demand power centers. On assessing the potential, experts estimate that Turkish waters have around 75GW of total technical potential for offshore wind resources. This strategic advantage makes it possible to generate large-scale, domestic power efficiently and sustainably.
Nevertheless, the realization of this potential is not without its complexities. Most of the suitable areas for wind energy are in deeper waters, necessitating the adoption of floating wind technologies. These technologies, while currently more expensive and less widespread, offer a significant opportunity for Turkey to pioneer innovative engineering solutions and potentially establish itself as a leader in floating offshore wind technologies. Embracing these advanced approaches could also stimulate job creation and technological advancements within the country.
In a low-growth scenario envisioned in the roadmap, Turkey could achieve 3.5GW of installed offshore wind capacity by 2040, significantly contributing to the economy with approximately $4 billion in gross economic benefits. In contrast, a high-growth scenario targets achieving up to 7GW of offshore wind capacity by the same year, potentially adding about $16 billion to the national economy. These projections underscore the economic potential and transformative impact that a well-implemented offshore wind strategy can have on Turkey’s energy landscape.
Maximizing Industrial Strengths and Strategic Infrastructure
Leveraging its existing industrial strengths, Turkey is well-positioned to build the necessary infrastructure and supply chains essential for developing a robust offshore wind industry. The roadmap includes 21 key actions for the government, focusing on creating a conducive regulatory environment, establishing reliable power purchase agreements, and upgrading grid and port infrastructures. By fostering a regulatory framework that de-risks projects, Turkey aims to attract significant foreign and domestic investments, vital for the long-term success of offshore wind projects.
Furthermore, significant emphasis is placed on the formulation and enforcement of best health and safety practices to ensure the welfare of workers and the surrounding communities. Upgrading grid and port infrastructures is crucial to handle the increased load and facilitate the efficient transfer of power generated by offshore wind farms to urban centers. Developing local supply chains is another pivotal component, aimed at reducing dependence on foreign imports and bolstering the domestic economy by creating jobs and spurring industrial growth.
The role of the World Bank in this journey is particularly noteworthy. Through various initiatives, the World Bank is supporting Turkey’s Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources in improving investment potential, derisking selected sites, and enhancing institutional capacities. These initiatives include thorough measurement campaigns to assess the feasibility of offshore wind projects and extensive socio-environmental analyses to ensure sustainable development.
Economic and Environmental Impact
Meeting Future Energy Demands and Sustainability Goals
Turkey’s roadmap for offshore wind energy is designed to ensure that the country meets its future energy demands while achieving sustainability goals. As the world transitions to renewable energy sources, Turkey’s commitment to offshore wind will contribute to reducing carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels. The large-scale adoption of offshore wind energy could significantly lower the country’s carbon footprint, aligning with global efforts to combat climate change.
Economic growth is another critical facet of this development strategy. By capitalizing on natural resources, Turkey aims to stimulate significant economic benefits through the establishment of a local offshore wind industry. Investment in offshore wind farms will not only provide direct economic benefits but also create a ripple effect, boosting related sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, and research and development. The projected economic gains in the various growth scenarios outlined earlier highlight the transformative potential of offshore wind energy for Turkey’s economy.
Next Steps and Future Outlook
Turkey, in collaboration with the World Bank Group, has initiated an ambitious roadmap aimed at developing and expanding its offshore wind industry. The plan aims to achieve an installed capacity of 5GW by 2035, with the potential to reach up to 7GW by 2040. This extensive strategy is a component of the “Turkey – European Union Instrument for Pre-Accession (IPA) Energy Sector Programme Phase IV Project – Offshore Wind Support.”
Beyond harnessing Turkey’s considerable natural resources, this initiative endeavors to position the nation as a significant player in the renewable energy sector, strategically located between Europe and Asia. By developing its offshore wind capacity, Turkey aims to contribute to global sustainability efforts, reduce carbon emissions, and increase energy security. This move aligns with global trends toward renewable energy sources, reflecting Turkey’s commitment to a greener future and strengthening its energy independence. The partnership with the World Bank Group also underscores the international support and collaboration driving this comprehensive energy transformation.
