As of 2025, solar energy has become a key component in energy investments both in Türkiye and globally. With decreasing equipment costs, the growing need for energy security, and sustainable development goals, many countries have increased their solar energy support policies. Türkiye, as an integral part of this transformation, offers a wide range of incentives including grants, tax exemptions, purchase guarantees, and financing support, all while promoting domestic production. Globally, mechanisms such as feed-in tariffs, net-metering, investment grants, and low-interest green loans are widely used.
Solar Energy Incentives in Türkiye (2025)
YEKDEM – Feed-in Tariff Mechanism
The Renewable Energy Resources Support Mechanism (YEKDEM) offers a fixed purchase price for electricity produced by licensed solar power plants. Valid for 10 years, this system also provides additional support when locally manufactured equipment is used. It ensures long-term income stability for large-scale investors.
Application Process:
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Obtain a generation license and Renewable Energy Certificate (YEK) from EMRA.
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Apply via the EPİAŞ platform.
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Ensure compliance with local equipment standards.
Unlicensed Solar Power Plants – Self-Consumption & Net Metering
Popular among residential and SME users, this model allows consumers to generate energy for their own use and transfer excess electricity to the grid. Monthly billing offset (net metering) enables cost savings or additional income. The support mechanism remains active for 10 years.
Application Process:
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Submit a connection agreement request to the distribution company.
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Deliver the required technical documents.
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Upon approval, complete installation and activate the system.
KKYDP and IPARD III – Grant Support
To accelerate the energy transition in rural areas, KKYDP provides non-refundable support up to 50% of the project cost for agricultural enterprises. IPARD III offers between 50% and 75% grants for projects ranging from €5,000 to €3,000,000. These programs are commonly used for solar-powered irrigation systems.
Application Process:
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Prepare a feasibility report, necessary permits, and project documents.
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Submit the file to the relevant provincial directorate or TKDK office.
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Upon approval, sign the contract and proceed with the installation.
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After installation, submit invoices and documents for payment.
Investment Incentive Certificate – Tax & Customs Benefits
For industrial investments, the Investment Incentive Certificate provides VAT exemptions, customs tax relief, tax reductions, and social security premium support. As of 2025, the use of domestically produced solar panels with locally manufactured cells is mandatory to fully benefit from this scheme.
Application Process:
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Apply online via the E-TUYS system.
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Prepare all required documents.
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Once the certificate is obtained, procurement and import transactions are carried out with tax advantages.
Credit and Financing Support
Public and private banks offer green loan packages with low interest rates and long terms for solar investments. Additionally, institutions like KOSGEB provide financial support for projects aimed at increasing energy efficiency, although they do not cover direct panel purchases.
Global Incentive Models
Germany
Germany’s EEG system provides up to 20 years of fixed feed-in tariffs, offering predictable income for investors. Net metering and community-based solar systems are also supported.
Switzerland
Switzerland guarantees payback through fixed tariffs for rooftop solar systems. A tiered support structure based on production volume is in place.
United States
The U.S. offers a federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) of up to 30% for solar energy projects. Additionally, many states implement their own incentives such as net metering and feed-in tariff schemes.
Developing Countries
In developing nations, institutions such as the World Bank and IRENA support solar investments with technical assistance, capacity building, and low-cost financing. Feed-in tariff systems remain the most widely used model.
General Application Steps
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Define Your Objective: Identify the system’s purpose—self-consumption, commercial generation, or agricultural use.
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Select the Appropriate Incentive: Evaluate available local, national, or international support mechanisms.
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Feasibility and Technical Preparation: Analyze investment cost, production capacity, and payback period.
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Documentation and Approvals: Prepare technical project files, permits, and application forms.
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Apply and Install: Submit a complete and timely application to the relevant authority.
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Benefit from the Incentive: Finalize grid connection after installation and claim financial support.
Conclusion
In 2025, solar energy has emerged as one of the central pillars of the global low-carbon energy transition. Türkiye supports this momentum with robust incentive structures and policies encouraging domestic production. Internationally, diverse mechanisms ease access to capital and accelerate solar technology deployment. With the right planning, accurate selection of support mechanisms, and strong technical foundations, transitioning to solar energy has become more accessible and sustainable than ever before.
References
- International Renewable Energy Agency. (2025, March 26). A record 452 GW solar capacity installed in 2024. IRENA.
- IEA-PVPS. (2025, April). Snapshot of Global PV Markets – 2025. International Energy Agency – Photovoltaic Power Systems Programme.
- International Energy Agency. (2024, February). World Energy Investment Special Report: Reducing the Cost of Capital. IEA.
- European Commission. (2022). European Commission adopts the rural development Programme for Turkey (IPARD III). European External Action Service.
- United States Department of Energy. (2024). Quarterly Solar Industry Update. U.S. Department of Energy.
- Swiss Federal Office of Energy. (2025). Energy Act and Photovoltaics Incentives in Switzerland. Swiss Confederation.
- Turkish Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources. (2024, October 1). Lisanssız Elektrik Üretimi Bilgilendirme Rehberi.
- Energy Market Regulatory Authority (EPDK). (2024, December). YEKDEM Uygulamaları.
- Turkish Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry. (2025, March 17). Bireysel Sulama Sistemlerinin Desteklenmesi Tebliği.
- Agriculture and Rural Development Support Institution (TKDK). (2025). IPARD III Program Application Guidelines.
- Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Industry and Technology. (2024, September). Domestic Cell Usage Requirement and Incentive Certificate Guide.
