Between July 2024 and June 2025, Turkey's electricity consumption was characterized by a heavy reliance on fossil energy, with more than half (about 55%) of the electricity generated coming from coal and gas. Specifically, coal provided a third and gas slightly over a fifth of total electricity generation. Clean energy, categorized as low-carbon, made up nearly 45% of the electricity produced. Of the low-carbon sources, hydropower was the dominant player, generating almost a fifth of the country's electricity. Wind and solar energy were also significant contributors, each accounting for slightly more than a tenth of the total mix. Geothermal and biofuels played a smaller role, each contributing close to 2.5% of electricity production. This mix illustrates Turkey's ongoing efforts to diversify its energy sources, though fossil fuels still hold the majority share.
Data sources used on this page include EIA, IEA and World Bank. More about data sources →
Is Electricity Growing in Turkey?
Electricity consumption per person in Turkey has shown modest growth, reaching 3885 kWh per person in 2025, an increase of 44 kWh from the previous record in 2024. This growth in consumption is a positive indicator of economic activity and the electrification of various societal sectors. However, it is concerning that low-carbon electricity generation per person decreased from 1793 kWh in 2024 to 1737 kWh in 2025. A decrease of 56 kWh in low-carbon generation signals a potential gap in the sustained growth of clean energy sources, which is crucial for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and mitigating climate change impacts.
Suggestions
To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Turkey should aim to expand its existing wind and solar energy infrastructure, given their proven contributions. For guidance, Turkey can learn from regions like Denmark and Iowa, where wind energy comprises about 60% of electricity generation, showcasing successful integration and utilization. Furthermore, considering nuclear energy as a viable option is recommended, as evidenced by France, where nuclear energy makes up a massive 70% of the electricity mix. By enhancing its clean energy capacity and possibly incorporating nuclear energy into its strategy, Turkey would be better equipped to achieve a sustainable and resilient energy future while reducing its dependence on fossil fuels.
History
Historically, Turkey's low-carbon electricity generation has experienced fluctuations, especially in hydropower. In the late 1980s, the country saw significant increases, like 10.3 TWh in 1988. However, there were periods of decline, including a drop of 11 TWh in 1989. Notable growth occurred in the mid-1990s and early 2000s, such as a 9.7 TWh increase in 2002, yet declines like in 2014 with an 18.8 TWh drop also marked this period. The most recent years have seen continued variations, with a gain of 10.8 TWh in 2022 but subsequent declines thereafter. The integration of solar energy into the mix is a positive development, notably contributing 8.1 TWh in 2024. Yet, the decline in hydropower in 2025 signals a need for a more stable and diversified low-carbon energy approach. Turkey's annual variations highlight the need for strategic investments to stabilize and enhance low-carbon electricity generation consistently.
