Türkiye’s Clean Energy Leap: Powering the Future with Nuclear and Clean Hydrogen
the backbone of Türkiye’s hydrogen economy, with electrolyzer capacity targets of 2 GW by 2030, 5 GW by 2035, and an impressive 70 GW by 2053.
Technological Innovation: TENMAK is driving advancements in hydrogen production and utilization. Starting with a 500 kW electrolyzer in 2023, Türkiye aims to scale to 500 MW–1 GW by 2053. Complementary technologies, such as biomass gasification, biogas pyrolysis, and biological/microbial hydrogen production, will enhance efficiency and sustainability. TENMAK also plans to develop fuel cell technologies, scaling from 10 kW to 300 kW by 2053, for applications in transportation, marine, rail, and aviation sectors.
Cost Competitiveness: Türkiye is committed to making green hydrogen economically viable, targeting production costs below USD 2.4/kg by 2035 and USD 1.2/kg by 2053. These aggressive cost reductions will position Türkiye as a global leader in affordable clean hydrogen.
This integrated approach not only supports Türkiye’s decarbonization goals but also creates a stable and predictable energy supply for industrial and export markets.
Why Türkiye’s Clean Hydrogen Sector Stands Out
Türkiye’s nuclear-powered clean hydrogen initiative is more than a national energy strategy—it’s a global business opportunity. Several strategic advantages make Türkiye an attractive destination for investment:
Strategic Location: Positioned at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Türkiye is ideally situated to serve the European Union’s ambitious goal of importing 10 million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030. Proximity to Europe reduces logistics costs, making Türkiye a competitive supplier for this high-demand market.
Reliable Energy Supply: Nuclear power provides consistent, low-carbon electricity, ensuring operational stability for hydrogen production facilities. This reliability is a critical advantage for businesses seeking to scale electrolysis operations.
Supportive Policy Framework: Türkiye’s government is committed to fostering clean energy innovation through tax incentives, customs duty exemptions, and streamlined permitting processes. Public-private partnerships (PPPs) with global firms like Rosatom and China’s State Power Investment Corporation mitigate financial risks, creating a secure investment environment.
Skilled Workforce: Türkiye is investing in human capital, training specialists in nuclear and hydrogen technologies through scholarships and international study programs. This ensures a steady supply of qualified professionals to support industry growth.
Small Modular Reactor (SMR) Development: Türkiye has set an ambitious target of deploying 5 GW of SMRs by 2050. SMRs offer flexible, scalable, and cost-effective nuclear power solutions that are particularly well-suited for powering clean hydrogen production.
These factors combine to create a robust ecosystem for businesses looking to capitalize on the global transition to clean energy.
Lucrative Business Opportunities Across the Value Chain
Türkiye’s phased approach to nuclear and hydrogen development offers diverse opportunities for businesses at every stage of the value chain. Key areas for investment include:
Electrolyzer Manufacturing: With targets of 2 GW by 2030 and 70 GW by 2053, Türkiye’s electrolyzer ambitions require significant manufacturing capacity. Companies specializing in proton exchange membrane (PEM) or alkaline electrolyzers can establish local production facilities to meet domestic demand and serve regional markets.
Engineering and Construction: The development of NPPs and hydrogen production plants creates demand for engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services. Firms with expertise in large-scale energy projects can secure contracts for ongoing and future initiatives.
Storage and Distribution Infrastructure: Scaling hydrogen production necessitates advanced storage solutions, such as high-pressure tanks, and distribution networks, including pipelines. Businesses in these sectors can support Türkiye’s domestic and export ambitions.
Maintenance and Technical Services: Operating 20 GW of nuclear capacity and 70 GW of electrolyzers by 2053 will require ongoing maintenance, safety inspections, and technical support. Service providers can secure long-term contracts in this high-growth sector.
Research and Development: TENMAK’s focus on innovative hydrogen production methods, such as chemo-thermal purple hydrogen, opens doors for R&D partnerships. Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can collaborate on pilot projects to develop next-generation technologies.
These opportunities are grounded in Türkiye’s realistic, phased roadmap, which balances short-term achievements with long-term scalability, ensuring a stable investment environment.
A Future-Proof Investment Destination
Türkiye’s commitment to nuclear energy, including its innovative SMR strategy, and clean hydrogen positions it as a leader in the global clean energy transition. With 20 GW of nuclear capacity by 2050 and 625,000 tonnes of annual hydrogen production by 2035, supported by a forward-thinking policy framework, Türkiye offers a compelling case for investment. The upcoming Türkiye Nuclear Business Platform (TNBP) 2025, set to take place in Mersin from October 8–10, will be pivotal in shaping this future. As a premier forum for policymakers, industry leaders, and investors, the event will foster critical dialogue around Türkiye's nuclear aims, paving the way for strategic partnerships and investment opportunities. Businesses that act now can secure a foothold in a market poised for exponential growth, contributing to Türkiye’s sustainable future while reaping significant returns. As the world races to decarbonize, Türkiye’s nuclear and clean hydrogen revolution presents a unique opportunity to build a cleaner, more prosperous tomorrow.
