Turkey, which has limited domestic oil and gas reserves, is increasingly turning to biofuels as a potential solution to meet its energy needs. While the country’s renewable energy sector relies heavily on hydro, wind, and solar, biofuels—derived directly from organic materials like wood or plant matter—are becoming a significant player in both domestic markets and international exports.
Biofuel pellets, created by compressing waste wood from the lumber industry, are gaining popularity as a cleaner alternative to coal and oil for heating purposes. These pellets provide a higher energy output per kilogram than gas, coal, or oil and are more environmentally friendly, emitting lower levels of pollutants. They are commonly used in stoves, furnaces, and heaters, especially during Turkey’s cold winters.
Turkey has the capacity to produce up to 1.8 million tonnes of biomass pellets annually, although current production levels have not yet reached this figure. The country’s Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources projects that the biomass sector, including pellets, has the potential to replace 3.9 million tonnes of oil products each year.
The sector has seen substantial growth, largely driven by increased demand from international markets following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. The conflict and subsequent restrictions on Russian energy exports led to a surge in interest in alternative fuel sources. Ali Fuat Gürle, chairman of the Executive Board for the Furniture, Paper, and Wood Products of the Ege Exporter’s Association, reported a fivefold increase in pellet exports in 2022. However, export figures have since slowed, with shipments to Germany falling by nearly 90% in 2024 compared to the previous year. Sales to Bulgaria also dropped, but exports to Austria, Slovenia, and Greece have helped offset the decline.
The Middle East has also shown increasing interest in Turkish biofuels, with oil-rich nations like Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE placing orders. Although shipments to these countries remain lower than to European markets, the demand is growing year on year.
Despite the sector’s growth, one challenge is raising awareness about the benefits of biofuel pellets in Turkey’s domestic market. Nazım Korkmaz, owner of Natural Pellet, a company based in the Bursa region, highlighted that many consumers, particularly in rural areas without natural gas infrastructure, still rely on traditional heating sources like coal. He believes it is essential to emphasize the environmental advantages of biofuels to persuade consumers to shift away from coal.
The biofuel sector in Turkey continues to expand, bolstered by international demand and the environmental benefits it offers. However, further efforts to increase domestic acceptance and awareness will be key to its long-term success.
