From Trade to Transition: UK and Türkiye Partnership in Clean Energy
The recent update to the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the United Kingdom and Türkiye marks a pivotal moment, moving beyond traditional commerce to focus on modern, forward-looking partnerships. For businesses operating in the clean energy sector, this revised agreement presents a significant opportunity. It’s a strategic framework designed to accelerate Türkiye’s clean energy transition by leveraging the UK’s leadership and expertise in clean technologies.
Türkiye Clean Energy Ambitions
Türkiyee has made remarkable strides in its clean energy journey, with clean energy sources now accounting for nearly half of its total electricity production. The country’s commitment to energy independence and sustainability is clear, with ambitious targets that include
Installing 5GW of offshore wind capacity by 2035
Expanding solar power generation, which saw a record 39% growth last year
Achieving these goals require more than domestic investment, but also a strong international collaboration. This is where the updated UK-Türkiye FTA becomes a game-changer.
Partnership Built on Expertise
The UK is a global leader in clean energy innovation, with a well-established ecosystem for offshore wind, small modular reactors (SMRs), smart grids, and energy storage. The new trade agreement creates a direct channel for Türkiye to access this expertise, paving the way for a collaborative, and accelerated transition.
UK institutions and research hub are well-positioned to partner with Turkish companies, offering support in research and development, capacity building, and market access. This collaboration also promotes technology transfer and knowledge exchange in vital areas such as
Grid integration of intermittent energy sources
Smart energy systems and AI-powered efficiency tools
Battery storage and flexible energy infrastructure
These components are critical to building a resilient, modern, and decarbonized energy system.
The Role of FTA in Türkiye Clean Energy Transition
The modernization of the UK–Türkiye Free Trade Agreement (FTA) comes at a critical juncture in Türkiye’s clean energy landscape. As the country scales up its decarbonization efforts and clean energy deployment, international trade can act as a catalyst for progress.
Moreover, a modern FTA could help remove tariffs and streamline customs procedures for climate-friendly goods, making them more accessible and affordable in Türkiye’s domestic market. It can also establish frameworks for public-private partnerships, sustainable finance mechanisms, and regulatory alignment that benefit both countries.
Trade as a Tool for Energy Transition
The enhanced UK–Türkiye Free Trade Agreement represents more than a commercial pact. It is a strategic tool for climate action, green investment, and long-term energy security.
By deepening cooperation in clean energy, the agreement not only advances Türkiye’s national goals but also contributes to the broader global push for sustainable, inclusive development. With smart implementation and a shared vision, this partnership has the power to redefine how countries work together for a cleaner, more resilient future.
