The $1 billion renewable energy partnership signals deepening UAE–Turkey cooperation in clean energy and technology transfer.
Ankara: Masdar, the UAE’s flagship renewable energy company, is in the final stages of signing an agreement with Turkey to develop a 1.1-gigawatt (GW) solar power project integrated with an energy storage system. The announcement was made by Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar on Tuesday, marking a significant step in expanding the two nations’ collaboration in the clean energy sector.
The deal follows a high-level visit by a UAE delegation led by Masdar CEO Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi, during which both sides discussed advancing investment partnerships in renewable energy, energy storage, and related technologies.
A $1 Billion Clean Energy Milestone
Valued at approximately $1 billion (around €866 million), the project will be developed in Turkey’s central Nigde Province, specifically in the Bor district. Once completed, the 1.1GW facility will stand among the largest solar power plants in the region, equipped with advanced energy storage technology to ensure grid stability and support Turkey’s transition toward a more sustainable energy mix.
The inclusion of storage systems highlights the growing focus on hybrid renewable energy models, which combine generation and storage to enable consistent power supply even when solar output fluctuates.
Strengthening UAE–Turkey Energy Ties
The initiative reflects the growing partnership between Ankara and Abu Dhabi in clean energy investment, driven by shared goals of energy diversification and carbon neutrality. Turkey, which aims to increase the share of renewables in its electricity generation mix, has become an increasingly attractive market for international investors seeking to contribute to the global energy transition.
Minister Bayraktar confirmed that discussions with Masdar have moved into the final stage, describing the cooperation as “strategic and forward-looking.” The minister noted that the project aligns with Turkey’s National Energy Plan, which targets expanding renewable capacity to 60GW by 2035, including 52GW of solar and wind energy.
Masdar, officially known as Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company, has been at the forefront of the UAE’s international clean energy expansion, with active projects across more than 40 countries. Its entry into the Turkish market underscores the UAE’s growing influence in the global renewable energy sector and its commitment to fostering partnerships that support sustainable growth.
Broader Collaboration in Renewable Technologies
Beyond the 1.1GW solar project, the discussions between the two sides also covered additional areas of potential cooperation. These include:
- Offshore Wind Power: Exploring the feasibility of large-scale offshore wind farms along Turkey’s coastlines.
- Pumped Storage Hydropower: Evaluating opportunities for energy storage through hydropower systems that can enhance grid resilience.
- Ultra-High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) Transmission: Developing advanced transmission infrastructure to transport renewable energy efficiently across long distances.
- Technology Transfer: Promoting knowledge exchange and innovation between Emirati and Turkish energy firms.
This multi-faceted framework aims to establish a long-term partnership that extends beyond a single project, positioning both nations as key players in the regional renewable energy transition.
Advancing the Global Energy Transition
Masdar’s growing investment footprint reflects the UAE’s broader ambition to lead the global clean energy movement. As part of the nation’s “Year of Sustainability” and its post-COP28 commitments, the UAE continues to channel capital into renewable projects worldwide—focusing on solar, wind, hydrogen, and storage technologies.
Speaking during the delegation’s visit, Masdar CEO Mohamed Jameel Al Ramahi emphasised the importance of international cooperation in achieving global climate targets. “Partnerships like these demonstrate our shared commitment to accelerating the clean energy transition. Turkey offers immense potential for renewable energy, and Masdar is proud to play a role in shaping its sustainable future,” he said.
A Strategic Step Forward
Once finalized, the 1.1GW solar and storage project will not only enhance Turkey’s domestic renewable capacity but also serve as a model for cross-border energy collaboration between the Middle East and Europe.
The project is expected to create hundreds of local jobs during construction, boost energy security, and reduce carbon emissions—contributing to both nations’ sustainability goals.
As global demand for clean power continues to rise, the partnership between Masdar and Turkey signals how Gulf investment and innovation are reshaping the renewable energy landscape—turning oil wealth into a catalyst for a greener, more resilient future.
