Written by: Fatima Younis
Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Alparslan Bayraktar, emphasized during the opening ceremony of the 2026-2027 academic year at Ankara University his country's strategy aimed at achieving energy independence by relying on innovation and young cadres. He pointed out that the global transition towards the era of artificial intelligence coincides with the necessity of strengthening electrical infrastructure, affirming that investment in these sectors is the main pillar for the future of the Turkish economy.
Renewable Energy Strategy and Consumption Efficiency
Bayraktar stressed that energy efficiency is currently the cheapest available source, calling for the adoption of a comprehensive national approach to rational consumption in homes, commercial facilities, and industries. Regarding sustainable energy sources, the minister explained that Turkey is setting ambitious goals to reach about 70% coverage of its energy needs through renewable sources by 2040, pointing out that this ambitious goal represents a pivotal part of the country's strategic direction towards a carbon-neutral economy by 2053.
Enhancing Domestic Gas and Oil Production
The minister explained that Turkey's strategy in oil and gas exploration has made qualitative leaps thanks to reliance on national ships and local engineering expertise. He pointed out the operation of the "Osman Gazi" floating production platform in the Black Sea, which will contribute to doubling gas production by 2027. He confirmed that the goal is to deliver national gas to 8 million homes, while seeking to quadruple total production by 2028. In the oil sector, Bayraktar noted that production in the "Gabar" field has reached about 85,000 barrels per day, with ambitious plans to raise this figure to exceed 100,000 barrels by 2027.
Nuclear Energy and Mining in Turkey's Future Vision
Bayraktar touched upon developments at the "Akkuyu" nuclear power plant, where final tests of the first reactor are underway in preparation for starting electricity production within the next few months, which embodies a strategic ambition to enhance energy security. He also emphasized the importance of the mining sector according to standards that place human beings and the environment at the forefront of priorities, while setting a strategic goal to raise domestic gold production to 100 tons annually, serving the national economy and providing sustainable added value.
