Usage areas of geothermal energy;

Geothermal energy can be used to generate electricity and heat. In high-temperature applications; the heat obtained from the geothermal fluid is turbined in the form of steam and electricity is generated by the generator.

In low-temperature geothermal resource applications; greenhouse heating and drying of agricultural products as well as regional heating and air conditioning needs can be met. In addition to these, low-temperature geothermal resources containing minerals beneficial to human health offer the opportunity to be used for thermal tourism and health purposes. 

Geothermal Energy Potential of Türkiye

Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source that offers energy supply security and flexibility of use. Türkiye is located on an active tectonic belt due to its geological and geographical location and is rich in geothermal resources in the world. There are geothermal resources at different temperatures spread throughout our country. 

Türkiye is the 1st country in Europe in terms of geothermal potential and the 4th country in the world in terms of installed capacity. The top five countries in electricity generation from geothermal energy are the USA, Indonesia, Philippines, Türkiye and New Zealand. The map showing the distribution of geothermal resources of Türkiye is given below.

Türkiye’s geothermal potential is high and 78% of the potential areas are located in Western Anatolia, 9% in Central Anatolia, 7% in Marmara region, 5% in Eastern Anatolia and 1% in other regions. It is evaluated that 90% of our geothermal resources are low and medium temperature and are suitable for direct heat usage applications (heating, thermal tourism, industrial applications, etc.) and 10% are suitable for electricity generation. Geothermal electricity generation in Türkiye was started in 1975 with the Kızıldere power plant with an installed capacity of 0.5 MWe. 

Since 2005, with the support of the MENR, emphasis has been placed on the development of existing resources and exploration of new resource areas. In 2008, after the enactment of the Law on Geothermal Resources and Natural Mineral Waters, Türkiye’s apparent geothermal potential increased rapidly with the participation of the private sector in geothermal exploration, development and investment activities. According to the studies of the General Directorate of Mineral Research and Exploration, the total apparent geothermal heat potential of Türkiye has reached 40,000 MWt. In the current situation, approximately 15% of this power has been utilized for heat and 4% for electricity generation.

Date of Update: 26 December 2024