Environmental Impacts of Energy Utilization and Renewable Energy Sources in Turkey

Abstract

Turkey is an energy importing country, more than half of the energy requirement has been supplied by imports. Domestic oil and lignite reserves are limited and lignites are characterised by high ash, sulfur and moisture content. Due to increasing energy consumption, air pollution is becoming a great environmental concern for future in the country. In this regard, renewable energy resources appear to be the one of the most efficient and effective solutions for sustainable energy development and environmental pollution prevention in Turkey. Turkey' s geographical location has several advantages for extensive use of most of these renewable energy sources. Because of this and the fact that it has limited fossil fuel resources, a gradual shift from fossil fuels to renewables seems to be serious and the sole alternative for Turkey. This article presents a review of the present energy situation and sustainability, technical and economical potential of renewable energy sources and future policies for energy sector in Turkey. Throughout the paper several problems relating to energy sources, environment and sustainable development are discussed from both current and future perspectives.

Energy and Environmental Policies in Turkey

“…These increases are more evident in the period following 2003, since the impact of the 2001 economic crisis was alleviated, and the economy stabilized. During this term, primary energy and electricity utilization grew at an annual average rate of 5.7% and 6.7%, respectively (Kaygusuz, 2001;DPT, 2006).…”

“…But exploiting the country's large energy efficiency potential is also vital. Air pollution is a significant problem and, as the government's projections show, carbon emissions could rise sharply if current trends continue (Kaygusuz, 2001(Kaygusuz, , 2004Yüksel, 2006).…”

Energy Utilization, Renewables and Climate Change Mitigation in Turkey

“…Turkey has limited reserves of oil and natural gas, but has proven reserves of lignite on the order of 8.4 billion tons. The nation also possesses renewables, especially wood and hydropower (Kaygusuz and Türker, 2002;Kaygusuz, 2001b;Yüksek et al, 2006). Natural gas production and use in Turkey began in 1976.…”

Hydropower Energy Versus Other Energy Sources in Turkey

“…As long as the rain falls, this energy source will stand forever. Because of the fact that Turkey is an energy-importing country and coal-fired power plants produce a significant amount of pollutants (CO 2 , SO 2 , NO 2 , and particulate matter), the country must use its own clean and domestic energy sources, especially hydropower, biomass, geothermal, solar and wind power sources (Kaygusuz, 2001a;Kaygusuz, 2001b;Kaygusuz, 2002a;Kaygusuz, 2004a). In terms of environmental protection hydropower, solar and wind energy are the most effective options available today for Turkey (Demirbaş et al, 2004).…”