Minister Bayraktar Denies Plans to Increase Natural Gas
Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Alparslan Bayraktar recently discussed Turkey’s energy progress and plans in an interview with Milliyet Newspaper and Hürriyet Newspaper. According to Minister Bayraktar, Turkey currently uses Black Sea gas in homes, with a daily production of 2.2 million cubic meters, a number that is expected to rise to 40 million. The goal is to reduce Turkey’s foreign dependency on energy and achieve complete independence within the next 30 years.
Minister Bayraktar also expressed his confidence in the potential for new discoveries in the Sakarya Gas Field, stating that exploration activities in the region will continue to focus on identifying new sources of gas. Furthermore, the Minister highlighted the government’s efforts to increase oil production in Gabar, Şırnak, aiming to meet 20 percent of Turkey’s oil needs by the end of 2024.
The Minister emphasized the importance of energy efficiency and sustainability, particularly in the face of Turkey’s growing population and urbanization. He pointed out that the government is committed to supporting clean energy initiatives, such as wind and solar power, as well as urban transformation projects aimed at reducing energy consumption and improving living standards.
Regarding natural gas prices, Minister Bayraktar confirmed that there are no plans to increase natural gas prices, and he assured that Turkey has some of the most affordable energy prices in Europe. Additionally, the government will continue to provide support for residential electricity, with subsidies covering up to 50 percent of household electricity costs.
Overall, Minister Bayraktar’s statements underscore Turkey’s commitment to achieving energy independence, promoting sustainable energy practices, and ensuring affordable and reliable energy access for its citizens. As the country continues to invest in exploration, production, and energy efficiency initiatives, Turkey is poised to make significant strides in securing its energy future.