Strategic Thinking in Resource Diversification: Assessing the Value of Nuclear Energy in Turkey

Abstract

Turkey is an energy dependent country with more than 75 percent of its energy being imported from foreign countries. The level of dependency is increasing every year because of the rising energy needs and the lack of national production. Among all forms of energy, increase in demand for electricity is the highest. At a time that some countries are announcing their decision to phase out nuclear power plants (NPPs) in favor of renewable energy sources, Turkey appears to be determined to proceed with its decision to acquire nuclear technology despite safety concerns. A country that has seen domestic opposition towards nuclear energy has already made significant progress towards acquiring one. This article uses a policy analysis framework to assess the value of nuclear energy in Turkey from an energy security perspective. It argues that energy security for Turkey can be dealt with thoroughly when the problem of resource diversification is addressed from a comprehensive perspective. Pros and cons of having NPPs in Turkey will be analyzed through energy security parameters vis-a-vis the urgent need for resource diversification.