Roadmaps for renewable energy transition in Turkey and the European Union

This study aims to comparatively analyse the renewable energy policies of Türkiye and the European Union (EU) in economic, environmental, social, technological and geopolitical dimensions and to reveal potential areas of cooperation. Within the framework of qualitative research method, Türkiye's Renewable Energy Resource Areas (YEKA) and Renewable Energy Resources Support Mechanism (YEKDEM) policies and the EU's European Green Deal and REPowerEU strategies were analysed. The analysis is based on institutional reports, policy documents and academic literature. The findings of the study show that the main differences between the two sides stem not only from strategic priorities (import dependence versus carbon neutrality), but also from the philosophy of the political-economic models adopted to achieve these goals. Türkiye has adopted a state-led, interventionist approach centred on domestic resource utilisation and security of energy supply, while the EU has adopted a 'regulator state' model that encourages market-based mechanisms, technological leadership and competition. Türkiye's geothermal and hydroelectric potential and strategic position stand out, while the EU's technological and financial superiority in wind, solar, green hydrogen and energy storage is evident. As a result, these complementary differences have been shown to create strategic cooperation opportunities to accelerate the achievement of both sides' energy transition goals. The transfer of green hydrogen and energy storage technologies, reforming Türkiye's incentive mechanisms with EU models, alignment with the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the development of joint energy projects in the Eastern Mediterranean are suggested as concrete grounds for such cooperation.