Major Renewable Energy Investment Nears Completion
UAE-based renewables developer Masdar and the Turkish government are in the final phase of a landmark US$1 billion agreement to establish a 1.1-gigawatt (GW) solar power plant with integrated energy storage. The project, set to be located in the Bor district of Nigde Province in central Turkey, marks a significant stride in the country's renewable energy ambitions.
Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar confirmed the advanced stage of negotiations following a meeting in Ankara with Masdar CEO Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi. Minister Bayraktar stated that the deal represents 'one of Turkiye's largest single renewable investments to date' and is crucial for the nation's drive toward its 2053 net-zero goals.
Project Scope and Strategic Importance
The planned facility will combine solar PV generation with an advanced energy storage system, which includes both battery and pumped-storage hydroelectric capacity. This hybrid approach is designed to ensure grid stability and provide a consistent power supply, addressing the intermittent nature of solar energy.
The investment underscores a deepening strategic cooperation between the UAE and Turkey in the clean energy sector. Beyond the solar project, discussions have also encompassed broader collaboration in areas such as:
- Onshore and offshore wind power
- High-voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission lines
- Technology transfer initiatives
Turkey's Ambitious Renewable Targets
This project is a cornerstone of Turkey's ambitious energy transition strategy, which aims to significantly increase its renewable energy capacity. The government plans to quadruple the country's renewable energy capacity from 30 GW to 120 GW by 2035. This expansion is expected to require an estimated US$108 billion in investments.
The Nigde-Bor solar-storage project is anticipated to enhance Turkey's domestic renewable capacity, bolster energy security, and contribute to reducing carbon emissions, aligning with both nations' sustainability objectives. Financial close and the commencement of construction for the project are expected from 2026 onward.
6 Comments
Mariposa
Pumped-hydro storage can be very disruptive to local ecosystems. Is that factored in?
Muchacha
Construction starting in 2026? That's far too slow for the climate crisis we're in.
Bella Ciao
It's encouraging to see such large-scale renewable investment in Turkey, which is vital for climate goals. However, the article doesn't detail the financial terms for Turkey or potential long-term debt implications.
Comandante
Sounds good on paper, but these mega-projects often come with hidden environmental downsides.
Bermudez
Another billion-dollar deal, but what's the actual cost to taxpayers? Skeptical.
ytkonos
Boosting energy security through renewables is undeniably a good thing for any nation. However, the environmental assessment of the pumped-storage hydroelectric capacity, particularly its impact on local water systems, should be thoroughly scrutinized.