Turkey is engaging in discussions with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to embark on two groundbreaking projects: green hydrogen production and the development of an offshore wind farm. These initiatives mark significant steps in both nations’ efforts to embrace renewable energy and strengthen economic cooperation.
The collaboration between Turkey and the UAE in the field of energy is part of a broader agreement initiated by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, involving energy cooperation worth an estimated $29.7 billion. A core component of this partnership is Turkey’s ambitious energy transformation project, which aims to generate 3.5 gigawatts of solar energy and 1.5 gigawatts of wind energy annually.
However, it’s the prospects of producing green hydrogen and offshore wind energy that are capturing attention.
Green Hydrogen Production from Wind Energy
Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar revealed that discussions are underway regarding green hydrogen production, primarily using wind energy as the power source. The Emirati companies involved in these talks are keen to explore the potential of Turkey’s energy transformation project. Hydrogen, a clean energy carrier, has the potential to revolutionize various sectors, from transportation to industry. Producing it using renewable sources like wind power aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
Offshore Wind Energy Expansion
Another pivotal project being discussed is the establishment of an offshore wind farm along Turkey’s northwestern Black Sea coast. The aim is to reach a total wind energy capacity of 5,000 megawatts by 2035. If successful, this endeavor will mark the inauguration of Turkey’s first offshore wind energy production facility. Offshore wind energy is a rapidly growing sector, offering a consistent and abundant source of renewable power.
A Renewed Diplomatic and Economic Relationship
The recent warming of diplomatic relations between Turkey and the UAE has opened doors for enhanced cooperation. Turkey’s role in supporting pro-democracy movements in the Middle East had strained ties over the past decade, but recent efforts to mend these relations have been fruitful. Diplomatic gestures, such as Turkey’s dispatch of troops to Qatar during the 2017 blockade imposed by Saudi Arabia and the UAE, marked a turning point.
Economic Incentives
This diplomatic rekindling has been paralleled by economic cooperation. In June, Turkish Vice President Cevdet Yilmaz and Finance Minister Mehmet Simsek traveled to the UAE to explore “economic cooperation opportunities.” Notably, a $5 billion currency swap deal was struck between Abu Dhabi and Ankara to bolster the Turkish lira. Emirati firms have also announced several investments in Turkey, indicating a growing economic partnership.
