What happened
Türkiye’s Ministry of Environment, Urbanisation and Climate Change has revised the principle decision governing wind energy projects in qualified natural protection areas.
The amendment removes the 50 MWm limit on installed capacity. At the same time, it reduces the maximum number of turbines permitted in a project from 20 to 18.
Regional commissions for the protection of natural assets may grant permission for projects that satisfy the applicable requirements. The decision was published in the Official Gazette, according to Yeşil Ekonomi.
Why it matters
For wind developers considering sites in qualified natural protection areas, project capacity is no longer limited to 50 MWm under this principle decision. Developers must nevertheless design projects within the 18-turbine ceiling and secure approval from the relevant regional commission.
The change may alter project configurations, particularly where developers previously had to keep capacity below the former threshold. It does not remove the requirement for projects to meet the conditions assessed by the protection commission.
Background
The original principle decision on wind power plants in natural protected areas was published on 25 January 2017. It introduced restrictions for wind investments in qualified natural protection areas and sustainable conservation and controlled-use areas.
The framework was updated on 20 July 2022. A subsequent decision published on 5 November 2022 allowed wind projects in these areas with a 50 MWm capacity limit.
