The Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant is a large nuclear power plant in Turkey under construction located in Akkuyu, Büyükeceli, Mersin Province. It is expected to generate around 10% of the country’s electricity when completed.
At a recent forum in Sochi, Turkey’s energy and natural resources minister, Alparslan Bayraktar, announced that nuclear energy would play a critical role in the country’s journey towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2053.
Bayraktar stated, “We aim to reach a total of 12 reactors and a nuclear power of 15,000 megawatts, with probably four reactors in three different locations in Turkey.”
The country plans to install two additional nuclear plants alongside the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, which is currently under construction in the Mersin province and has faced opposition from environmentalists.
Despite Turkey’s focus on nuclear energy, the country has a great potential for renewables and energy efficiency. Bayraktar emphasized the need to incorporate nuclear energy into the energy mix.
Is nuclear energy renewable energy?
The proposed expansion in Turkey aims to reach 7.2 gigawatts of nuclear capacity by 2035 and up to 20 gigawatts by 2050. Plans also include incorporating small modular reactors to contribute additional power.
In contrast, solar power is a growing part of renewable energy in Turkey, with wind power also playing a significant role in the country’s energy mix. However, concerns about the environmental and social impact of energy choices remain.
As Turkey continues its push for nuclear power, the country should also consider the lessons learned from past nuclear disasters, such as Chernobyl, Fukushima, and Three Mile Island. These events highlight the risks and challenges associated with nuclear energy.
Despite Turkey’s ambitions in the nuclear energy sector, the country should not overlook the opportunities presented by renewable sources like solar and wind power.
A solar energy plant in Turkey
Turkey’s energy landscape is evolving, with a mix of nuclear, solar, and wind power contributing to the country’s electricity generation. While nuclear energy plays a role in Turkey’s energy security, the environmental and safety challenges associated with this form of energy should not be ignored.
As Turkey navigates its energy transition, it is crucial to find a balance between different energy sources to ensure a sustainable and reliable power supply for the future.
