Türkiye may come to the fore in the nuclear energy race

The 11th Nuclear Power Plants Summit held in Ankara witnessed critical assessments regarding Türkiye’s nuclear energy vision. Speaking at the summit, US Department of State Nuclear Energy Senior Advisor Justin Friedman emphasized that Türkiye has leadership potential in the nuclear field. “Many necessary elements are ready today. The sectoral developments we observe show that Türkiye can lead on a global scale with strong policies and the right collaborations,” he said.

“WILL Türkiye BE A LEADER OR A FOLLOWER?”

Friedman said that the question of whether Turkey will lead or follow is now at a turning point, and that the determination shown by the private sector and public institutions has strengthened his belief in this area. “With some clear policy steps and strategic partnerships — especially collaborations with U.S. companies — Turkey can shape not only its own energy transition but also the global nuclear energy vision,” he said.

COOPERATION OPPORTUNITY IN SMALL MODULAR REACTORS (SMR)

Friedman, who delivered a presentation titled “U.S. Leadership for the SMR Revolution” at the summit, stated that there are five companies licensed in the U.S. in the field of small modular reactors (SMRs), and that a significant portion of these companies are currently operating in the field of nuclear or conventional energy. He stated that this situation clearly demonstrates the private sector’s interest in nuclear technology.

Friedman stated that clear and predictable regulations are the basis for attracting investment in SMR projects, and commented, “As grid integration schedules and pricing mechanisms are clarified, investment appetite will increase.”

STRONG SIGNAL FROM TURKISH INDUSTRY

Referring to his contacts in Türkiye, Friedman said that from his meetings with the big five companies and various industry associations, he got the impression that the Turkish private sector wanted to take a leading role in this area. “The picture that emerged from my meetings is clear: Türkiye wants to take part in this race and has the capacity to take on this role,” he said.

STRATEGIC STEP FOR Türkiye-BULGARIA COOPERATION

During the summit, a goodwill agreement in the nuclear field was signed between the Nuclear Industry Association (NSD) and the Bulgarian Atomic Forum (BULATOM). This agreement is considered a strategic move that will pave the way for potential regional cooperation and joint projects in the field of nuclear energy between Türkiye and Bulgaria.

A STRONG FUTURE IS POSSIBLE IN NUCLEAR ENERGY

Stressing that nuclear energy is not only a form of energy production but also a strategic tool for energy security, carbon neutrality goals and economic development, Friedman stated that it is time for Türkiye to play a more active role in this area. He concluded his words by saying, “Türkiye’s infrastructure, industrial power and geopolitical position can make it not only a user but also a guiding actor in nuclear energy.”

Source: Headline News