Turkey Introduces New Rules For Wind And Solar Power Plants In Natural Protected Areas

Turkey's Environmental and Urbanisation Ministry has introduced new principles for wind and solar power plants ("WPP" and "SPP" respectively). The rules outline restrictions on existing and new generation facilities in protected natural areas, as well as criteria where the local District Commission of Protection of Natural Heritage can allow projects to proceed.

Notable aspects of the rules include:

• New WPP projects are not permitted in sensitive areas which are subject to strict protection under legislation ("Sensitive Areas"). However, existing facilities can continue to operate until their current permission expires.
• WPP facilities currently in Sensitive Areas cannot increase their capacities by adding new turbines or changing their areas. However, the local District Commission of Protection of Natural Heritage can allow such expansions in certain limited circumstances.