What happened
HESİAD, Türkiye’s hydropower industry association, has welcomed the Medium-Term Programme for 2027–2029 signalling preparations for rules governing pumped-storage hydropower plants (PHES).
In a written statement reported by Yeşil Ekonomi, the association said its technical work had identified pumped-storage projects as a potential source of long-duration storage and system flexibility as solar and wind capacity grows.
HESİAD said the interval from preliminary feasibility work to commercial operation can last eight to ten years. It argued that preparations for investment must therefore begin promptly if projects are to contribute to Türkiye’s 2035 energy objectives.
Why it matters
Pumped-storage schemes can store electricity and release it when needed. HESİAD said this capability could help incorporate variable renewable generation into the power system, while supporting grid flexibility and security of supply.
For developers and investors, the association said legislation alone would not be sufficient. It called for a framework that gives projects a foreseeable investment and revenue model. It also presented the technology as relevant to reducing external dependence in energy.
What's next
HESİAD said the next steps after establishing the legal basis should include identifying suitable project locations, accelerating feasibility studies and planning grid connections.
The association also welcomed the programme’s references to greater digitalisation in water management and to a smart water-management system. It said digital tools and measurement could support more effective management of water used in electricity generation.
