Turkey Harnesses Energy Ambitions to Recast Regional Role

Turkey is intensifying its efforts to establish itself as a crucial energy hub linking the East and West. This strategy, employed by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, aims to expand Turkey's geopolitical influence amid changing global power dynamics.

As Europe and the United States work to reduce their dependence on Russian and Iranian energy, Ankara is leveraging its strategic location to transform pipelines, gas fields, and renewable energy projects into diplomatic assets.

Turkey's goal is apparent: it seeks to become an essential transit corridor for energy into Europe while strengthening ties with partners across the Middle East and Central Asia. Analysts believe this could provide Erdoğan with increased leverage in Washington and Brussels, while also enhancing his influence among neighboring countries. Energy analyst Ariel Cohen noted in "Forbes" that “Turkey is engaging in energy politics very intelligently. It aims to turn geography into power.”

Domestically, Turkey has announced new natural gas discoveries in the Black Sea, including the Göktepe-3 field, although local production still significantly trails behind demand. Last year, domestic output accounted for only 4 percent of national consumption. Ankara aims to increase that figure to 30 percent in the coming years.

Meanwhile, the government is moving forward with the Akkuyu nuclear power plant, which is expected to be fully operational by 2028, and is increasing investments in renewable energy. Turkey plans to expand its solar and wind energy capacity to 120,000 megawatts by 2035.

By diversifying its energy sources and positioning itself as a bridge between energy producers and consumers, Turkey is not only striving for energy security but also attempting to reshape international alliances. Its expanding role could reduce Europe’s reliance on Russian supplies, while also providing Ankara with new negotiating power in global diplomacy.

However, this strategy encounters challenges, including infrastructure limitations, unpredictable regional politics, and doubts about Turkey's ability to provide sufficient volumes to meet European demands.

For Erdoğan, energy is no longer just about ensuring electricity supply; it has become a fundamental aspect of foreign policy—a means to project influence, negotiate partnerships, and secure Turkey’s position in a rapidly evolving geopolitical landscape.