ENERGY EXPLORATION & EXPLOITATION, cilt.26, sa.2, ss.83-110, 2008 (SCI-Expanded)
Abstract
Energy is an essential factor in overall efforts to achieve sustainable
development. Countries striving to this end are seeking to reassess their energy
systems with a view toward planning energy programs and strategies in line
with sustainable development goals and objectives. Turkey’s demand for energy
and electricity is increasing rapidly. Since 1990, energy consumption has
increased at an annual average rate of 4.3%. Turkey is heavily dependent on
expensive imported energy resources that place a big burden on the economy
and air pollution is becoming a great environmental concern in the country. As
would be expected, the rapid expansion of energy production and consumption
has brought with it a wide range of environmental issues at the local, regional
and global levels. With respect to global environmental issues, Turkey’s carbon
dioxide (CO2) emissions have grown along with its energy consumption. States
have played a leading role in protecting the environment by reducing emissions
of greenhouse gases (GHGs). In this regard, renewable energy resources appear to be the one of the most efficient and effective solutions for clean and
sustainable energy development in Turkey. Turkey’s geographical location has
several advantages for extensive use of most of these renewable energy sources.
This article presents a review of the potential and utilization of the renewable
energy sources in Turkey.