Modelling the Potential Impacts of Nuclear Energy and Renewables in the Turkish Energy System

Abstract

With heightening global concerns about the impacts of climate change, the debate around different carbon mitigation options is gaining momentum. A widespread argument is between those for and against utilizing nuclear energy as a low-carbon energy source. This debate is also relevant for Turkey, a country that is set to introduce nuclear energy to its electricity generation mix over the coming years. The purpose of the study is to assess the potential merits and drawbacks of the utilization of nuclear energy in the country versus the increased utilization of renewable energy sources. A fundamental merit order model is used for modeling the Turkish electricity market until 2025 under three scenarios. The comparative effects of renewable energy sources and nuclear energy are evaluated in terms of their impact on electricity generation costs, CO2 emissions and energy security. The results of the study show that the increased utilization of renewable energy has a more effective role in achieving the country’s energy targets in comparison to nuclear energy.