Dr. Murtaza Ata, Board Member and CEO of Kalyon Energy, shared insights into Türkiye’s renewable energy potential and the company’s strategic growth plans in an interview featured in Newsweek magazine’s internationally recognized report, Pillars of the Green Transition. In the interview, Dr. Ata emphasized Kalyon Energy’s ambition to reach 5 GW of solar and wind power capacity and 1 GWh of energy storage capacity within the next four to five years.
In the report’s section titled “Anatolia Rising,” Türkiye’s strategic position in the global energy transition was highlighted at a time when Europe is actively seeking sustainable energy solutions. The report noted that Türkiye benefits from an ideal geographical balance for renewable energy generation, avoiding the efficiency losses caused by extreme heat in equatorial regions while maintaining highly favorable solar irradiation levels.
“Türkiye Has Exceptional Clean Energy Potential”
Commenting on the country’s advantages, Dr. Ata stated:
"Türkiye is located along a strong wind corridor stretching from the Middle East to the north, highlighting the scale of our renewable energy potential. While the country currently has approximately 15 GW of installed wind capacity, the onshore wind potential is estimated at no less than 100 GW, and solar energy potential is projected to be between 300 and 400 GW. Despite this, installed solar capacity currently stands at only around 25 GW.
Harnessing these resources effectively is critical not only for strengthening our energy independence but also for reducing our trade deficit, as energy imports account for 70–80% of the deficit in some years."
“Our Ability to Execute Quickly Enables Us to Deliver Projects Efficiently”
Dr. Ata noted that Kalyon Energy’s integrated approach to project development and investment allows the company to move rapidly from planning to implementation:
"We successfully commissioned three wind power projects within a single year. We are now applying the same capability to a new 500 MW solar power plant currently under construction in Karapınar, which we plan to complete by the end of 2026.
Our objective is to reach at least 5 GW of solar and wind generation capacity and 1 GWh of energy storage infrastructure within the next four to five years. We are also focusing on next-generation grid-forming inverter technologies that can help reduce dependence on gas- and coal-fired power plants while enhancing grid stability."
Beyond Energy Generation: Supporting Sustainable Development
Dr. Ata also emphasized that Kalyon Energy’s contribution extends beyond electricity generation to supporting the social and economic development of local communities:
"As Türkiye advances on its green transition journey, our projects are creating opportunities for local communities alongside clean energy generation. Through our Under-Panel Grazing Program implemented at our solar power plants, more than 100,000 sheep use our facilities as grazing land.
This initiative demonstrates how renewable energy production and traditional livestock farming can coexist in harmony. In addition, we provide support to local communities for agricultural and livestock activities, helping strengthen regional economies and contribute to sustainable rural development."
