Turkey successfully operates the largest solar energy complex in Europe, the Kalyon Karapınar SPP, which provides electricity to two million residents. Although the plant is located in the Asian part of the country — in Konya province, it has already become a European record holder in terms of scale and technological solutions.
This is reported by Finway
Features of the complex and architectural solutions
The Kalyon Karapınar solar power plant consists of approximately 3.5 million panels, spread over an area of more than 20 million square meters — equivalent to the area of 2600 football fields. The facility generates nearly three billion kilowatt-hours of electricity annually. The plant has been operational since 2023, and its design was accompanied by the creation of a unique Main Control Center, developed by Bilgin Architects. The building has impressed internet users with its futuristic appearance: from the outside, it resembles a rectangular prismatic object with mirrored silver panels, while inside there is an open green courtyard.
“The project produces nearly three billion kilowatt-hours of electricity per year, enough to supply a city with two million residents.”
Leadership in renewable energy and future plans
According to analytics from the Ember energy center, Turkey has also created one of the largest battery energy storage projects in Europe, surpassing similar initiatives in EU countries. Starting in 2022, the country mandates that new wind and solar facilities be complemented with corresponding storage systems. By 2025, the share of renewable energy (wind and solar) in Turkey’s electricity generation reached 22%, making the country an undisputed leader among 16 states in the Middle East, Caucasus, and Central Asia.
At the same time, the share of coal generation in Turkey remains high at 34%, with two-thirds of the coal being imported. In terms of total renewable energy production, Turkey ranks 16th in Europe, and for wind generation, it ranks 15th. To achieve the goal of 120 GW by 2035, the country needs to triple its solar and wind energy capacities.