- Türkiye is rapidly expanding its wind energy sector, adding 1.3 GW in 2024 and ranking third in Europe.
- U.S. wind energy progress stalled under Trump’s administration, with weakened environmental policies and investor uncertainty.
- Türkiye’s strategic investments and government support position it as a model for renewable energy growth and energy independence.
Global energy systems shift as renewable power, especially wind, grows. However, countries show mixed results. Türkiye is advancing rapidly, while the U.S. is struggling due to policies under Donald Trump.
Türkiye’s Wind Energy Growth
Türkiye emerges as a top player in European wind energy. In 2024, the country increased its wind capacity by 1.3 GW, securing third place in Europe. This growth surpasses several EU nations and highlights Türkiye’s focus on renewable energy.
Türkiye achieves success through strategic investments and government support. The Renewable Energy Resource Zone (YEKA) auction, introduced in 2016, promotes large-scale wind projects. These auctions simplify land deals and offer incentives, attracting local and international investors.
Türkiye aims to reduce its reliance on foreign fuels by boosting renewable energy. It targets 120 GW of wind and solar power by 2035, strengthening its leadership in clean energy.
Challenges persist. Grid connection issues and permit delays slow progress. Despite this, Türkiye is improving processes to sustain its renewable energy-momentum.
U.S. Wind Energy Under Trump
In contrast, the U.S. struggled with wind energy growth during Trump’s presidency. Trump’s administration weakened environmental regulations and favoured fossil fuels. This shift reduced investor confidence in renewable energy.
The U.S. exited the Paris Agreement, and Trump’s tariffs on wind and solar products slowed wind project growth. As a result, the U.S. lost its lead in global renewable energy. Wind energy jobs stagnated, and the country increased its dependence on fossil fuels, raising emissions.
Europe’s Wind Leaders: Germany, Finland, and Türkiye
While the U.S. lagged, Europe expanded wind energy. In 2024, Europe added 13.8 GW of onshore wind capacity. Germany led with 3.2 GW, followed by Finland and Spain. Türkiye ranked third in Europe with its 1.3 GW capacity boost.
Europe’s wind capacity now totals 285 GW. WindEurope projects another 186 GW by 2030, aligning with the EU’s 42.5% renewable energy goal.
Türkiye’s Global Impact
Türkiye’s role in BRICS+ strengthens its global renewable energy influence. By prioritising wind power, Türkiye is a model for other developing countries. Its efforts to cut foreign fuel dependence and advance renewable technologies benefit its economy and global climate efforts.
As Türkiye builds renewable energy capacity, it sets an example of energy independence. Meanwhile, the U.S. must overcome setbacks from Trump’s policies, which stalled its progress.
Türkiye races ahead in wind energy while the U.S. lags. Türkiye’s success shows how government backing can accelerate the transition to clean energy. Türkiye provides valuable lessons in achieving energy security and sustainability as the world moves toward renewables.