What is changing in the energy and mining law?

The first four articles of a proposed law, which includes various amendments to the energy and mining sectors, were approved by the General Assembly of the Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM). The regulations under discussion aim to accelerate investment processes and support environmentally sound mining and renewable energy projects.

VARANK: “WE ARE REMOVING THE OBSTACLES IN THE TRANSITION TO RENEWABLE ENERGY”

Commission Chair and AK Party Bursa Deputy Mustafa Varank stated that the primary purpose of the regulations is to pave the way for renewable energy investments. Varank noted that investment permit processes currently take up to four to five years, which deters investors. He added that the new regulations will expedite these processes.

Varank also responded to claims in some circles that the "EIA process is being abolished," emphasizing that the environmental impact assessment system would be preserved, but that only the process of obtaining institutional opinions would be expedited.

THE OLIVE TREE DEBATE: “NOT CUTTING, BUT TRANSPORTATION”

Addressing the opposition's criticism of the provisions regarding olive groves, Varank stated that these trees would not be cut down, but would be moved, and those that could not be moved would be replanted in equivalent areas. Recalling that the number of olive trees in Türkiye had increased from 100 million to 205 million during their time in power, Varank said, "We are not enemies of olives."

REACTION TO COMMISSION TALKS: "WORKING ENVIRONMENT HAS BEEN OBSTACLED"

Referring to the discussions that took place during the commission meetings, Varank claimed that some MPs physically intervened and that commission members were unable to sit in their seats, arguing that this situation prevented a healthy working environment.

Criticism of the environment and law from the opposition

DEM Party Deputy Group Chairman Sezai Temelli argued that the proposal did not reflect public consent, while CHP and İYİ Party deputies expressed the view that it was harming the environment, olive groves, and the rule of law. CHP Deputy Şeref Arpacı criticized the inadequacy of the impact analyses, saying, "We are sacrificing olives, nature, water, and honey. It's unclear what the country is getting in return."

DEFENSE FROM THE GOVERNMENT AND ITS SUPPORTERS: “BALANCED STEPS TOWARDS DEVELOPMENT”

AK Party and MHP deputies stated that the new regulations make mining more environmentally friendly and sustainable. MHP member İbrahim Ethem Sedef emphasized that the changes increase predictability in mining and strengthen environmental improvement and rehabilitation processes.

AK Party Konya Deputy Mustafa Hakan Özer highlighted Türkiye's energy imports and highlighted the importance of efforts to reduce foreign dependency. He stated that regulations regarding olive groves are limited to specific coordinates and are secured by reforestation commitments.

WHAT DO THE NEW REGULATIONS BRING?

According to the accepted articles:

The phrase "EIA Not Required" has been removed from the legislation. Now, only projects that receive a "Positive EIA Decision" will be able to begin investment.

Some definitions in the Mining Law have been updated. "Rehabilitation cost" has been regulated as a separate article, while concepts such as "Board" and "Collection Office" have been added to the legislation.

Time limits have been introduced for the permission process. If institutions fail to respond within three months, a one-month extension will be granted. If they still fail to respond, the permission will be deemed granted.

A free permit system has been introduced for state forests. Temporary permits for 24 months may be issued for forested areas upon request from the General Directorate of Mining and Petroleum Affairs.

Rehabilitation requirements have been introduced. After the mining activity, trees will be replanted on the site, with the cost covered by the investor.

SPECIAL REGULATION FOR STRATEGIC MINES

The definitions of "strategic and critical minerals" have been redefined. Immediate expropriation and stockpiling requirements may be introduced for minerals vital to energy, defense, and industry. These minerals will be determined by the Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources, in consultation with relevant ministries.

The reunion was suspended

Deputy Speaker of the Grand National Assembly of Turkey Tekin Bingöl adjourned the session after Article 4 of the proposal was approved. When the committee failed to return to the chamber, the session was adjourned to resume at 2:00 PM.

Source: Headline News – News Center