Solar energy potential in Turkey

Abstract

In this study, the solar energy potential of Turkey was investigated. Among the alternative clean energy resources in Turkey, the most important one is solar energy. Turkey's solar energy potential has been estimated to be 26.4 million toe as thermal and 8.8 million toe as electricity. Generally, solar energy is used for heating and the consumption of solar energy has increased from 5 ktoe in 1986 to 335 ktoe in 2003. Turkey's geographical location is highly favourable for utilization of solar energy. The yearly average solar radiation is 3.6 kWh/(m2 day) and the total yearly insulation period is approximately 2460 hours, which is sufficient to provide adequate energy for solar thermal applications.