Wind Energy Development in Turkey: Policies and Challenges

Abstract

This paper aims to explore the availability and potential of wind energy in Turkey as well as assessing related government policies and challenges. As a European Union (EU) candidate several incentives were developed in Turkey for electricity generation from renewable energy sources by the enactment of Law No. 5346 in 2005 which was later restructured by Law No. 6094 in 2010. By June 2012, 57 wind power plants in operation with a total installed capacity of 1776 MW; whereas there are 212 wind power plants are under construction with a total installed capacity of 7166 MW. Within the scope of the study a survey was conducted with experts in order to determine the main barriers for wind energy development. The survey results revealed that the grid connection and change of laws were considered as the most important risks for wind energy development in Turkey. The findings of the case studies demonstrated that the perception of inadequate understanding of the risks elements can lead to project schedule overrun which can result in significant revenue loss.