Türkiye’s Akkuyu nuclear power plant to activate first reactor by 2025

Türkiye’s Energy and Natural Resources Minister, Alparslan Bayraktar, has announced that the first reactor of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) will be operational by 2025.

During an inspection of the construction site in Mersin, Bayraktar emphasized the significance of Akkuyu NPP in securing Türkiye’s energy supply and meeting climate targets.

Bayraktar highlighted that the plant, which is the world’s largest nuclear construction site, has four reactors under simultaneous construction. With over 30,000 workers involved, the project represents a major milestone for Türkiye’s energy future.

Akkuyu to meet 10% of Türkiye’s energy demand

The minister revealed that once fully operational by 2028, Akkuyu NPP will supply 10% of Türkiye’s electricity needs. “Our goal is to have all four reactors running by 2028, covering 10% of Türkiye’s energy demand. Starting next year, we will begin activating the reactors, beginning with the first one,” Bayraktar said.

The clean and carbon-free energy generated at Akkuyu NPP is projected to reduce Türkiye’s carbon emissions by 30 million tons annually, he added.

70-year nuclear dream of Türkiye

Bayraktar reflected on the long journey toward realizing Türkiye’s nuclear ambitions, which date back to the 1950s.

“The construction of Akkuyu NPP symbolizes the fulfillment of a 70-year dream for Türkiye. Under the leadership of our President (Erdogan), we took a significant step in 2010 when we signed the intergovernmental agreement with the Russian Federation,” he stated.

Despite facing numerous challenges, Bayraktar reaffirmed Türkiye’s commitment to its nuclear energy goals, aiming to achieve a capacity of 20,000 megawatts by 2050.

“We continue this journey with resilience. By 2050, Türkiye will ensure its energy security through clean, carbon-free sources,” he said.