Solar energy power plant in turkey and the example of Bingöl Karlıova - Solhan

Renewable energy sources are forms of energy that are continuously renewed by natural processes and do not deplete over time. Unlike fossil fuels, which are commonly used in energy production, these sources offer alternatives that minimize environmental impacts and provide sustainability. Renewable energy sources are primarily categorized into the following: Solar Energy, Wind Energy, Geothermal Energy, Hydroelectric Energy, and Biomass Energy. These sources have the potential to reduce carbon emissions, improve air quality, and enhance energy security. The growing global population, technological advancements, and the limited nature of fossil fuel resources have made the transition to renewable energy sources essential to meet the increasing energy demand. In this context, solar energy is widely utilized today. Although solar energy can be applied in various regions, the amount of energy produced may vary depending on geographical location. This study examines the extent to which Turkey, a country with significant potential for solar energy, utilizes this resource, along with its advantages, disadvantages, and future prospects. Specifically, the installation of solar power plants in the districts of Karlıova and Solhan in Bingöl province has been analyzed, with an evaluation of these regions' geographical features, sunlight durations, and energy production potentials. During the winter months, energy production at the municipal plant in Solhan was 35.95% more efficient in 2022 and 2.78% more efficient in 2023 compared to the plant in Karlıova. However, this trend reversed in the summer months. During the summer, the municipal plant in Karlıova generated electricity with 14.97% greater efficiency in 2022 and 6.30% greater efficiency in 2023 compared to the plant in Solhan. Based on the data obtained, on an annual basis, the solar power plant owned by the Karlıova municipality produced 4.28% more energy than Solhan in 2022 and 2.99% more in 2023. Keywords: Renewable energy, Hydroelectric energy, Wind energy, Fossil fuels, Solar energy.