Türkiye is promoting global electrification ahead of its COP31 summit in November 2026, despite significant reliance on coal within its national electricity grid. At international forums, Minister Murat Kurum advocates for the world to achieve a 35% share of electricity in final energy demand by 2035. However, domestic data presents a more complex picture.
While wind and solar power reached a combined 22% of generation—surpassing hydropower for the first time—coal remains the single largest power source at 34% of generation, much of which is imported. Efforts to bolster renewables are challenged by government incentives that guarantee prices for domestic coal, citing the need to protect mining employment. Environmental advocates have raised serious concerns regarding the expansion of coal facilities, with independent panels questioning the adequacy of environmental impact assessments.
Meanwhile, the country’s own climate pledges project rising emissions through 2035, contrasting with the push for a greener future. Despite these headwinds, positive trends are visible. Renewable generation rose 32% year-on-year in the first five months of 2026, and the approved battery pipeline capacity is substantial.
The debate highlights a tension between international climate commitments and the immediate energy needs of the domestic economy. As the world anticipates the summit, the juxtaposition of these differing energy trajectories—from ambitious international pledges to the reality of fossil fuel dependence—remains a central point of discussion.
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