Few geothermal power plants operate in Turkey, a nation that predominately relies on fossil fuels. The Tuzla project involved building one of the first geothermal plants in the region. In effect, this project successfully connects renewable energy sources to the power grid, and demonstrates the viability of future renewable energy projects in Turkey.
Building this project provided jobs to the local community, and today the plant supports a number of permanent jobs and provides on-going technical training. During the actual building process, the local community was consulted and involved in two local stakeholder meetings, enabling them to raise concerns and buy-in to the project.
This project promotes energy security for Turkey, improved air quality, climate action, sustainable development and the local economy. Renewable energy is key to Turkey’s quest for energy independence and moving away from a reliance on energy imports.
In regards to climate action, the plant’s expected yearly net electricity generation is 51,192,000 kWh per year, and this will eliminate 32,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year.
Project impacts and benefits:
- Supports social development and enhances local employment through the construction and operation of the geothermal power plant - 14 permanent jobs created
- These increased job opportunities and other associated business activities helps alleviate local poverty
- Providing training (first aid, fire, technical affairs, management) for employees to improve their qualifications and competencies
- Will eliminate 32,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year by generating 51,192,000 kWh annually
- Diversifies the energy mix for Turkey and helps develop the renewable energy industry in Turkey.
