Solar Energy Investment in Turkey – Legal Guide for Foreign Investors

1. Einleitung

Solar energy investment in Turkey is one of the fastest-growing opportunities for foreign investors looking to enter the renewable energy market. With over 2,640 hours of sunshine annually, favorable government incentives, and a strong legal framework, Turkey offers an ideal environment for building solar power plants. This guide from AdvocaTeTurkey explains every step—licensing, permits, grid connection, environmental compliance, and incentives—so you can start your project with clarity and confidence.

2. Rechtsrahmen und Regulierungsbehörden

Solar energy projects in Turkey are primarily regulated by:

• Energy Market Regulatory Authority (EPDK) – manages licensing and market oversight.
• Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources – shapes national renewable energy policy.
• Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change – ensures environmental compliance.
• Local municipalities and provincial administrations – handle zoning and construction permits.

The main legal basis for solar projects is the Law No. 5346 on the Use of Renewable Energy Sources and the Electricity Market Law No. 6446.

3. Pre-Investment Stage

3.1. Solar Resource Measurement and Feasibility

A successful solar energy investment in Turkey starts with a detailed solar resource analysis, including irradiation data, shading assessments, and panel efficiency projections. This data is essential for technical planning and securing financing.

3.2. Land Selection and Ownership

Investors must secure land with optimal exposure to sunlight, either through purchase, long-term lease, or government allocation. Legal due diligence ensures the land is free of disputes, mortgages, or use restrictions.

4. Lizenzierungs- und Genehmigungsverfahren

4.1. EPDK-Generierungslizenz

Most large-scale solar power plants require an EPDK generation license. Application requirements include:

• Turkish-registered company documents.
• Technischer Machbarkeitsbericht.
• Finanzplan.
• Solar resource analysis.
• Land use rights documentation.

Licenses can be valid for up to 49 years, giving long-term security to investors.

4.2. Unlizenzierte Erzeugung

Projects up to 5 MW can operate without a license but must still comply with technical and safety regulations and obtain grid connection approval.

5. Grid Connection

After licensing, the investor must sign a grid connection agreement with TEİAŞ or the relevant distribution company. This outlines connection points, capacity, and infrastructure requirements.

6. Umweltgenehmigungen

6.1. Umweltverträglichkeitsprüfung (UVP)

Large-scale projects may require an EIA Positive Decision, while smaller ones can obtain an EIA Not Required Certificate. The EIA assesses environmental risks and outlines mitigation strategies.

6.2. Besondere Landnutzungsgenehmigungen

• Für die Nutzung von Forstflächen ist eine Genehmigung der Generaldirektion für Forstwirtschaft erforderlich.
• Agricultural land requires non-agricultural use permission from the Ministry of Agriculture.

7. Zoneneinteilung und Baugenehmigungen

Before construction, investors must obtain:

• Zoning plan approval from local authorities.
• Construction permits in line with approved designs.

8. Konstruktion, Installation und Vorbetrieb

Solar energy investment in Turkey involves installing photovoltaic panels, inverters, and transmission systems according to international standards. After installation:

• Conduct pre-commissioning tests.
• Sign a system usage agreement with TEİAŞ or the local distribution company.

9. Kommerzieller Betrieb und Energievertrieb

Once operational, the investor can:

1. Sell electricity in the free market.
2. Join the Renewable Energy Support Mechanism (YEKDEM), which guarantees purchase prices for solar energy and offers additional incentives for locally manufactured components.

10. Anreize für ausländische Investoren

10.1. Investitionsanreizzertifikat

Provides:

• Mehrwertsteuerbefreiung.
• Zollbefreiung.
• Senkung der Unternehmenssteuer.
• Zinsstützung.

10.2. Doppelbesteuerungsabkommen

These agreements allow foreign investors to repatriate profits without being taxed twice.

11. Rechtliche Aspekte und Risikomanagement

• Ensure all contracts comply with Turkish law and international private law.
• Perform full environmental and land due diligence before construction.
• Work with experienced legal advisors specializing in solar energy investment in Turkey to minimize regulatory and operational risks.

12. Schlussfolgerung

Solar energy investment in Turkey offers high profitability, long-term stability, and significant government support for foreign investors. By following the correct steps—feasibility, licensing, grid connection, environmental compliance, and commercial operation—investors can secure both financial returns and contribute to Turkey’s renewable energy transformation.