The Hydrogen Economy in Turkey

Turkey's National Hydrogen Strategy 

The "Türkiye Hydrogen Technologies Strategy and Roadmap" published in 2023 sets ambitious goals: 

• By 2030, the country aims to install 2 gigawatts of electrolysis capacity. This should be increased to 5 gigawatts by 2035 and even to 70 gigawatts by 2053. 

• At the same time, Turkey wants to ensure that the production costs of green hydrogen are below $2.4/kg H₂ by 2035 and below $1.2/kg H₂ by 2053. 

These goals make it clear that Turkey wants to become a significant exporter of green hydrogen. 

A particular focus of the hydrogen strategy is on the development of regional hydrogen hubs in the country's metropolitan regions. These are intended to use the existing infrastructure for conventional energy carriers such as natural gas and oil, and through networking, enable nationwide access to hydrogen.

Turkey's Locational Advantages in the H₂ Sector 

Turkey has numerous locational advantages in the hydrogen sector. The strategic position between Europe and Asia and the diverse renewable energy sources form a foundation for building a competitive H₂ economy. 

The country can draw on diverse renewable energy sources. It has: 

• High potential for solar energy, especially in the south and southeast 

• Excellent wind conditions for wind power along the Aegean and Mediterranean coasts 

• Significant hydropower resources in mountainous regions 

• Geothermal energy sources in various parts of the country 

These diverse renewable energy carriers form the basis for the production of green hydrogen. Additionally, Turkey has a well-developed energy infrastructure, and its geographical location makes the country a potentially important hub in international hydrogen trade. As a bridge between Europe, the Middle East, and Asia, the country could play a key role in the distribution and transportation of hydrogen. Turkey can utilize an existing pipeline network that connects the country with the European Union. This could be retrofitted for hydrogen transport and would thus form an ideal basis for hydrogen transportation. However, Turkey can act not only as an exporter but also as a transit country due to its location. It can bundle and forward hydrogen from various production regions, such as countries in North Africa and the Middle East. Thus, Turkey could become an indispensable partner. To realize this potential as a hub in international hydrogen trade, Turkey is strengthening its international cooperations. Initial memoranda of understanding with EU countries regarding future hydrogen supplies have already been signed.

Challenges and Outlook 

Despite the favorable starting conditions, the Turkish hydrogen economy faces significant challenges. Building the corresponding infrastructure – from electrolyzers to storage facilities to transportation routes – requires massive investments. In addition, regulatory frameworks need to be created that offer investment security while ensuring high safety and environmental standards. 

Nevertheless, the prospects for the Turkish hydrogen economy are promising. With its national strategy, natural advantages, and the commitment of industry pioneers, the country has good chances of establishing itself as an important player in the global hydrogen economy. As Erkam Kocakerim aptly noted in the interview: "Those who invest in a future technology like hydrogen today will be among the winners of the industrial transformation tomorrow." 

wire and Tube go Türkiye 

The coming years will show whether Turkey can achieve its ambitious goals and fully exploit the potential of its hydrogen economy. Learn more about the current state of the country's industry at wire and Tube Eurasia 2025, taking place from April 9 to 12, 2025, in Istanbul.