Spatial analysis of renewable energy potential and use in Turkey

Turkey is known to be rich in terms of renewable energy. Efficient use of renewable energy resources requires analysis of their spatial distribution as these resources are not equally distributed throughout the country. The aim of this study is to investigate the current use and the available potential of hydraulic, wind, geothermal, solar, and biomass energy in Turkey on a spatial basis using Geographic Information Systems. The results show that renewable energy resources are distributed over the country, and countrywide utilization of renewable energy is possible. However, a very limited portion of the available potential is currently in use. The eastern part of the country has a remarkable hydraulic energy potential, whereas the western part has high wind and geothermal energy potential. The western and central parts of the country are rich in terms of biomass energy potential, while the southern and southeastern parts have plentiful solar energy. As an energy importing country, Turkey needs to increase the potential and use of its renewable energy resources. For this purpose, a strong renewable energy policy needs to be established, and some enhancements in current implementations need to be made. Spatial analysis is a powerful tool to help policy makers and implementers during the establishment and enhancement processes.