Work continues at full speed on the Solar Power Plant (GES) project in the Karapınar district of Konya. Planned with a total installed capacity of 1.35 GW (1350 MW), the project is expected to become the largest in Europe and one of the world’s largest solar power plants when completed. A significant portion of the installation has already been commissioned so far.
Key Highlights About the Project
- Large-Scale Investment: Karapınar GES is one of Turkey’s most ambitious renewable energy projects. In addition to the investment cost, its high installed capacity means that once completed, the project will have a positive impact on the country’s overall energy supply security.
- Generation Capacity: When finished, the project will have the potential to provide electricity to over 3 million households annually. Thus, it is expected to contribute significantly to energy supply both regionally and nationally.
- Environmental Contribution: At full capacity, the project will prevent an average of over 2 million tons of carbon emissions per year. This amount is equivalent to the annual exhaust emissions of approximately 2 million vehicles, playing a key role in helping Turkey achieve its climate targets.
- Local Production and Technology: A substantial portion of the panels used in the power plant is produced in local factories such as Kalyon PV. In this way, local manufacturers are supported, and the project also contributes to the development of solar energy technologies in Turkey.
- Job Creation: During the construction and installation phase, thousands of people have been employed, adding economic value to the Konya region. Moreover, the plant is expected to create ongoing job opportunities during its operational phase.
Project Development Process
Planning and Licensing Process: Karapınar GES was launched after years of feasibility studies and various legal approvals.
Construction and Installation Stage: So far, hundreds of megawatts of capacity have been commissioned through site preparation, panel installation, and infrastructure work.
Testing and Commissioning: Every new cluster of panels undergoes a testing process after installation. Once performance measurements and quality checks are completed, the segments are connected to the grid.
Completion and Expansion: After reaching the primary goal of 1.35 GW, further capacity increases or additional technological improvements may be considered in the future.
Digital Monitoring and Energy Storage Potential
Karapınar GES stands out not only for its large-scale panel field but also for its smart monitoring and energy management systems. Investors and officials can track real-time production data from all panels on site. Thanks to this digitalization, any faults or performance drops can be instantly detected and addressed.
Moreover, with the recent rise in energy storage technologies, they are now under closer scrutiny in Turkey. In the future, battery storage systems may be integrated into the project so that generated electricity can be distributed optimally to meet grid requirements.
Economic and Social Impact
Karapınar GES can directly contribute to Turkey’s goal of reducing energy imports, potentially playing a role in lowering the current account deficit. Utilizing domestic production facilities and engineering services increases the added value within the country while also enhancing expertise in the green economy sector. Local communities benefit not only from the employment opportunities offered by the plant but also from the support for infrastructure and social projects in the region.
Future Expectations
Karapınar GES is an important showcase for Turkey and the region in the field of renewable energy. Once it reaches full operational capacity, a significant increase in Turkey’s overall installed solar power capacity is anticipated. Experts note that the success of this project will inspire new, large-scale solar and wind projects in the coming years.
