The Energy Market Regulatory Authority (EPDK) of Türkiye has updated the method for calculating the annual production amounts of renewable energy facilities. With the new regulation, resource-based criteria and capacity factors are redefined, aiming to ensure more realistic planning and standardization in the sector.
In accordance with the principles that came into force with the decision of the Board , energy source-specific criteria will be used in determining the maximum annual production quantities to be considered in preliminary licenses and production licenses have been updated.
According to the new regulation, the capacity factor for geothermal energy plants will be 91.3% and 8,000 hours per year. This value once again highlights the baseload production characteristic of geothermal energy and confirms its high continuity advantage compared to other renewable sources.
For hydroelectric power plants, the maximum annual production amount determined by the State Hydraulic Works (DS?) will be used as the basis. However, if the actual production exceeds this value, the realized production may be taken into account.
For renewable energy facilities other than hydroelectric power, the capacity factor-based calculation method will be applied. In this context:
- Wind energy: 45.7% capacity factor – 4,000 hours
- Solar energy: 28.5% capacity factor – 2,500 hours
- Biomass: 85.6% capacity factor – 7,500 hours
- Geothermal: 91.3% capacity factor – 8,000 hours
A new approach to hybrid and storage facilities.
In facilities using multiple energy sources, the annual production amount will be calculated based on the capacity factor of the main source. Similarly, in electricity generation facilities with storage, the main source will be the determining factor.
In solar energy projects, if the storage unit capacity exceeds the main source installed capacity, the maximum annual production amount will be determined using a specific calculation method stated in the board decision.
More realistic planning and licensing processes
The new regulation by EPDK is expected to contribute to a more accurate determination of the production capacities of renewable energy facilities, increase standardization in licensing processes, and make electricity system planning more realistic. The new method makes geothermal energy stand out because of its high capacity factor, making the sector’s role as baseload power provider more visible and increasing predictability for investors.
For detailed information: Decisions No. 14435, 14442, 14443, 14444, 14445, 14446, 14447, 14449, 14450, 14451, 14452, 14460 and 14461 of the Energy Market Regulatory Authority dated 02/04/2026.
Source: Sözcü via our Turkish language platform JeotermalHaberler
