Turkey’s Natural Gas Dependency On Gazprom And US Sanctions: Possible Solutions – OpEd

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Following the US sanctions on Gazprombank, Turkey’s request for an exemption from these sanctions to continue importing natural gas from Russia has brought energy dependency issues back into focus. The Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources’ request reflects Turkey’s efforts to safeguard energy supply security while also highlighting gaps in its energy independence.

Gazprom’s Share in Turkey’s Energy Market

Gazprom, which accounts for 40% of Turkey’s natural gas imports, has been targeted by US sanctions. The US Treasury Department imposed sanctions on Gazprom and six foreign subsidiaries, prompting Turkey to seek diplomatic solutions to avoid disruptions. Meanwhile, some European Union member states continue to import gas from Russia, raising questions about Turkey’s position in the face of these sanctions.

According to data from Turkey’s Energy Market Regulatory Authority (EPDK), the country’s natural gas consumption for 2024 is expected to fall below the projected 56 billion cubic meters. However, this situation underscores the need to ensure energy supply security and intensify efforts to diversify energy sources.

Dependency in Energy Policies and Alternatives

Requesting exemptions from the US exposes Turkey’s reliance on external energy sources. To reduce dependency and enhance energy independence, the following steps can be considered:

1. Alternative Suppliers: Increasing LNG imports from countries like Qatar and Algeria could diversify energy sources.

2. Renewable Energy: Investments in wind, solar, and hydroelectric energy should be accelerated.

3. Domestic Resources: Newly discovered natural gas reserves in the Black Sea and Mediterranean should be rapidly brought into production.

4. Increasing Storage Capacity: Expanding natural gas storage capacity can strengthen supply security.

Reducing reliance on Russia has become a strategic priority for Turkey’s energy independence. US sanctions serve as a warning to address this dependency. Investments in renewable energy and diversification of suppliers will play a critical role in ensuring energy security. In the short term, however, diplomatic efforts will be necessary to prevent interruptions in energy imports.

Haluk Direskeneli

Haluk Direskeneli, is a graduate of METU Mechanical Engineering department (1973). He worked in public, private enterprises, USA Turkish JV companies (B&W, CSWI, AEP, Entergy), in fabrication, basic and detail design, marketing, sales and project management of thermal power plants. He is currently working as freelance consultant/ energy analyst with thermal power plants basic/ detail design software expertise for private engineering companies, investors, universities and research institutions. He is a member of Chamber of Turkish Mechanical Engineers Energy Working Group.

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