Türkiye sets strategic course in nuclear reactors and hydrogen energy

Türkiye is launching strategic programs to expand its capabilities in nuclear reactors and hydrogen energy, aiming to strengthen energy security, reduce import dependence, and support industrial transformation through clean energy technologies.

According to the Ministry of Industry and Technology’s “2030 Industry and Technology Strategy,” Türkiye is accelerating efforts in renewable and alternative energy technologies, focusing on hydrogen and nuclear development as part of its broader green transition.

National Hydrogen Program targets clean industrial use

Under the National Hydrogen Program, Türkiye will promote integrated systems for hydrogen production, storage, transport, and industrial use. Key initiatives include:

• Establishing electrolysis facilities powered by solar and wind energy
• Creating pilot hydrogen production zones
• Replacing fossil fuels with hydrogen in energy-intensive industries such as iron-steel, petrochemicals, and fertilizers
• Supporting the use of hydrogen in transport, particularly in fuel cell vehicles and heavy-duty trucks

The domestically developed electrolyzer system by TUBITAK will have its capacity increased to become a globally competitive product, and local electrolyzer usage will be encouraged in green hydrogen investments.

The program will also establish safety standards and a legal and technical framework for hydrogen transport infrastructure. Efforts will be made to equip local industries to manufacture hydrogen systems and build a national supplier ecosystem.

This initiative is positioned as a cornerstone in Türkiye’s energy transition, boosting competitiveness, cutting foreign dependence, and opening opportunities in a new hydrogen economy with strong export potential.

Domestic nuclear reactor development to accelerate

Türkiye also plans to advance domestic nuclear reactor development to support long-term energy security, industrial growth, and its 2053 net-zero emissions goal.

Key components of the nuclear strategy include:

• Developing and locally producing strategic nuclear materials
• Maximizing domestic production of nuclear equipment and infrastructure
• Supporting reactor R&D through the Pre-Competition Cooperation Program
• Creating domestic supply chains in areas like automation, heat exchangers, pressure vessels, and safety systems

Türkiye’s nuclear energy journey began with the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, which will consist of four units with a total capacity of 4,800 megawatts. The first unit is expected to become operational this year. Akkuyu will feature the most advanced nuclear safety and technology systems.

The strategy also includes research into next-generation technologies such as molten salt reactors, aimed at strengthening Türkiye’s role in global nuclear innovation.

Nuclear Technopark to become innovation hub

To centralize R&D and innovation in nuclear sciences, Türkiye plans to establish a Nuclear Technopark. The center will coordinate efforts by TUBITAK, the Türkiye Energy, Nuclear and Mineral Research Agency, universities, and private sector startups.

Istanbul Technical University is expected to take academic leadership within the technopark, leveraging its longstanding experience in nuclear energy.

The technopark aims to:

• Enhance Türkiye’s capacity in nuclear technologies
• Strengthen university-industry cooperation
• Serve as a hub for advanced nuclear R&D projects

The nuclear sector is also projected to boost employment and local production across construction, electronics, and manufacturing, while also contributing to strategic sectors such as aviation, space, and defense, which require high standards in safety and quality.