Türkiye leads with 42% of global electricity generation

Renewable energy surges globally, Türkiye leads with 42% renewable electricity indicating solar and wind power growth

In 2023, the share of renewable energy sources in global electricity generation exceeded 30% for the first time, as Türkiye surpassed the global average by generating 42% of its electricity from these sources.

These findings were revealed in the Global Electricity Outlook Report published by London-based energy think tank Ember. The report covers data from 80 countries, representing 92% of global electricity demand.

Decline in carbon intensity

Last year, global electricity demand reached a record 29.5 terawatt-hours, with solar and wind power emerging as the fastest-growing sources of supply.

Solar power saw the most significant year-on-year increase in electricity generation, maintaining its position as the world’s fastest-growing source of electricity for 19 consecutive years.

Wind power generation also saw a significant increase.

The report highlighted a record decline in the electricity sector’s carbon intensity, with renewables contributing over 30% of global electricity generation for the first time.

Despite the growth in renewables, coal and natural gas still account for a significant share of global electricity generation.

The report states that the expected increase in clean electricity generation marks the beginning of a new era in the electricity sector focused on reducing emissions.

By 2024, the report projects a 2% decline in global fossil fuel electricity generation.

This projection aligns with the targets set at the U.N. Climate Conference COP28 held in Dubai last year. During that conference, world leaders agreed to triple global renewable energy capacity and increase it to 60% of electricity generation by 2030.

Türkiye exceeds global average

In line with global trends, Türkiye has seen a significant increase in solar and wind energy generation. Exceeding the global average, Türkiye generates 42% of its electricity from renewable sources.

Solar and wind energy contribute 6% and 10% to Türkiye’s electricity generation, respectively, while hydroelectric power remains the primary renewable source with 20%.

However, fossil fuels still account for a significant share, with 58% of Türkiye’s electricity generated from these fuels last year.

Ember reports that Türkiye has significant potential for electricity generation from renewable sources.

The Turkish government has set a target to meet 47% of its electricity demand from renewable sources by 2030.

Türkiye’s abundant resources

Ufuk Alparslan, leader of Ember Türkiye, emphasized that Türkiye’s advantageous position in the renewable energy revolution is primarily because of its abundant hydropower resources.

However, he warned hydropower is vulnerable to drought. Alparslan argued that alternative potentials, such as rooftop and floating solar power plants, should be exploited to support energy security and mitigate the impact of hydropower variability.

Source: AA