CircuBot: An Innovation in Recycling That Could Change the Future of Waste Management

08.03.2025

Sajam-tehnike-CircuBot-(1) — Photo: CircuBot

S orting, processing, and reusing waste materials are key steps toward achieving the goals of a circular economy. The CircuBot project, funded by the Science Fund of the Republic of Serbia as part of the Green Program for Science and Industry Cooperation, offers an innovative solution with the potential to improve recycling processes through automation. Developing a circular economy and more efficient recycling hinges on precise waste separation and sorting. This is precisely where CircuBot introduces a revolutionary approach: automated sorting with the help of robots.

The project responds to the strict regulations of the European Commission, which require member states to reduce municipal waste sent to landfills to 10 percent of total waste by 2035. Considering the current situation, with recycling rates in the European Union ranging from 20 percent to 60 percent and Serbia recycling less than 2 percent of its municipal waste, it is clear that swift action is needed to create a more efficient waste management infrastructure.

While many European Union countries already widely use automated sorting systems, Serbia still relies on manual labor in recycling centers, which not only slows down the process but also creates unsafe working conditions. CircuBot aims to address this issue: by automating waste separation with robots, it increases recycling efficiency and creates safer working environments. This technology could significantly reduce landfill waste and accelerate the transition to a circular economy.

IN FOCUS:

Prototype Development

CircuBot combines advanced robotics, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning to develop a system that automatically detects, sorts, and analyzes waste. A prototype system has been developed through the collaboration of two leading Serbian teams in robotics and AI—from the Faculty of Engineering Sciences in Kragujevac and the School of Electrical Engineering in Belgrade. It uses robotic arms, industrial cameras, and advanced computational analysis to identify and separate various types of waste, including PET packaging, cans, and electronic waste. In the project’s initial phase, the team focused on developing the prototype in a laboratory setting, using e-waste samples obtained from leading Serbian e-recycling firms. The prototype concept is based on a robotic arm and an industrial camera that detects waste moving along a conveyor belt. Using images of the waste, the system automatically localizes and classes various waste types, after which the robotic arm physically sorts them. This approach not only accelerates the recycling process but also reduces the need for human labor in hazardous conditions.

In addition to increasing efficiency, CircuBot offers other positive impacts. Automation in recycling significantly improves worker safety and health, creating a more comfortable work environment compared to current conditions, which involve manual sorting in standing positions and often unhealthy surroundings. Furthermore, developing this technology contributes to building a team of robotics, AI, and computer vision experts who will tackle technological challenges and advance the industry.

The CircuBot project will be a key element in accelerating Serbia’s transformation toward a sustainable waste management system aligned with European standards and the goals of a circular economy. This pioneering project not only demonstrates the potential of innovation but also provides concrete solutions to long-term environmental challenges, laying a new foundation for responsible waste management in the future.

At the International Fair of Technology in Belgrade in 2024, the project results were showcased for the first time. Visitors were introduced to the key elements of the prototype, including the mechanism for automated waste sorting and the AI-powered control interface. They had the opportunity to see a live prototype demonstration and engage with team members about technical challenges and the project’s next steps.

The project authors are Arso Vukićević, PhD Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Engineering Sciences, University of Kragujevac; Kosta Jovanović, PhD, Associate Professor at the School of Electrical Engineering, University of Belgrade; and Dragana Nišić, PhD, Associate Professor at the Faculty of Mining and Geology, University of Belgrade.

CircuBot Project Team

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

DR Congo Plans to Protect 550,000 Square Kilometers of the World’s Largest Remaining Tropical Forest

07.03.2025

šuma , priroda — Photo-illustration: Freepik (wirestock)

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has recently unveiled an ambitious plan to protect and preserve the world’s largest remaining tropical rainforest. President Félix Tshisekedi emphasized that the project will involve the creation of the world’s largest tropical forest reserve along the Congo River Basin, spanning more than 550,000 square kilometers of forest.

This initiative represents a crucial step in safeguarding forest ecosystems within the Congo Basin, whose forests constitute a significant portion of the world’s natural resources. By establishing a green corridor that will connect the Kivu region with the capital, Kinshasa, DR Congo aims not only to preserve the rainforest but also to stimulate economic development and improve the living conditions of millions in the region. The planned expansion of the corridor to over 2,400 kilometers will be a major step toward sustainable development, biodiversity conservation, and mitigating the effects of climate change.

According to international media reports, President Tshisekedi underscored that this project extends beyond mere forest conservation, as it will also have a profound impact on local communities. Estimates suggest that the implementation of the green corridor could generate approximately 500,000 new jobs and secure one million tons of food annually for Kinshasa, Africa’s largest city.

The project has received support from the European Union, which has mobilized €1 billion for this purpose. Additionally, the EU has allocated more than 40 million euros in grant funding to promote sustainable agriculture, the use of renewable energy sources, and biodiversity conservation.

Data shared by the World Economic Forum (WEF) indicate that the Congo River Basin serves as the world’s largest tropical forest carbon sink, absorbing 1.5 billion tons of CO2 annually. Furthermore, the basin’s peatlands store nearly 30 billion tons of carbon dioxide. Approximately 60 percent of the forests in this basin are located within DR Congo, which is home to nearly 10,000 unique species.

Energy portal

EBRD Financed Rail Crossing Between North Macedonia and Serbia Receives 2.8 million euros EU grant

07.03.2025

voz - železnica — Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (Charles Forerunner)

An agreement securing 2.8 million euros grant from the European Union (EU) to develop a joint border railway station between North Macedonia and Serbia was signed today in Skopje by the First Deputy President of the Government and Minister of Transport, Mr Nikoloski and EBRD Head of North Macedonia, Mr Türkmenoğlu.

The EU funds, which are provided through the Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF) , complement a 5 million euros loan already provided by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and will finance construction and technical assistance.

The joint border crossing will be located in Tabanovce, in North Macedonia, on the Corridor X rail route, which is part of the Trans-European Transport Network (TEN-T) extension to the Western Balkans region.

Works include upgrading the railway station’s existing buildings and constructing new energy efficient buildings with photovoltaic panels. Once in use, the joint station will be shared by staff from both countries, helping optimise border customs control procedures and reducing waiting times, travel for people and goods. This will lead to better regional connectivity and integration on Corridor X.

His Excellency Michalis Rokas, EU Ambassador to North Macedonia, said that “with the grant of 2.8 million euros, the EU is directly supporting efforts to upgrade the Corridor X railway system and improve regional connectivity. This project aims to transform the barriers that borders create into opportunities for faster connection to the EU. And this is not all. With the new Reform and Growth Facility, the EU’s support for regional connectivity will grow even stronger.”

Fatih Türkmenoğlu, EBRD Head of North Macedonia, said: “This project is a result of joint efforts and coordination between the EBRD, EU/WBIF, and authorities of North Macedonia and Serbia to improve regional cooperation and connectivity, and we are proud to be an important part of it. The EBRD has been helping the country to improve its transport links in the country and with the region, and in the railway sector alone we have invested over 340 million euros.”

“The joint rail crossing between Macedonia and Serbia will improve the communication between the two countries and we will get one-stop-shop crossing for the road and railway traffic. I hope that this will be an introduction towards re-establishing the regular passenger railway line between Skopje and Belgrade, which will require efforts on both sides. The project is worth 7.4 million euros in the construction part, and 250.000 euros for the consultant services and supervision. The Corridor X represents the main economic blood flow of the country, which will improve the movement of goods and people, as well as the export and the import towards and from Europe resulting into new jobs, increased economic activity and faster transit of the passengers and the goods through the country, making it more attractive destination”, said the First Deputy President and Transport Minister Nikoloski.

The project is a key priority for the country and part of the European Commission’s connectivity agenda for the Western Balkans.

Source: EBRD

Two Trees for Every Child – Love That Grows in Nature

06.03.2025

The energy brought by the birth of a pure love has the power to spread miles away. For every love that begins to grow through the birth or adoption of a child in Wales, two saplings simultaneously start to take root—one on Welsh soil and the other under the African sky. This symbolic message of the unbreakable bond between humans and nature began its journey in 2008. Since then, thousands of trees have grown alongside generations of children.

The Plant! Program

More than fifteen years ago, the Welsh Government launched an initiative called Plant! with the idea that for every child born or adopted in Wales, a tree would be planted in the country. The initiative, carried out by the government organization Natural Resources Wales (NRW), lasted until 2023.

To learn more about this program, I visited the official website of the Welsh Government and found some interesting information. The initiative was implemented automatically, without requiring parents or guardians to sign up. Once a tree was planted, a certificate was issued and sent to the child’s address. Interestingly, this document was environmentally friendly, produced from sustainably managed forests. Along with the certificate, a letter provided information about the exact location of the child’s tree, allowing the family to track its growth. Additionally, trees were not planted randomly across Wales but in specifically designated areas that would form new forests over time.

The Planting Continues

The charity organization Size of Wales, which focuses on reforestation and climate action, joined the Plant! program. Before continuing the story, it is important to highlight that this organization places special emphasis on working with partner countries such as Uganda. This is significant because, in 2014, the Plant! program expanded to ensure that for every tree planted in Wales, another one was planted in Uganda. The implementation of this part of the program was taken over by Size of Wales, meaning that today, every child born or adopted in Wales receives two trees. Although the government program ended in 2023, this organization has continued its efforts to this day.

The certificates with tree location details are particularly fascinating for the trees planted in Uganda, considering that they are located on a different continent, thousands of miles away.

The Bigger Goal of Size of Wales

If we take a closer look at the name Size of Wales, we will notice that it translates literally to “the size of Wales.” This is no coincidence. The symbolism behind the organization’s name reflects its main goal: to protect and restore tropical forests worldwide over an area equivalent to the size of Wales.

Uganda holds a special place in the heart of this organization, as it has one of the highest deforestation rates in the world. Data shows that between 2001 and 2020, Uganda lost nearly 920,000 hectares of forest. If this trend continues, the country faces the risk of losing its entire forest cover by 2040.

Indigenous and local communities are the best guardians of forests, as their knowledge has been passed down through generations for centuries. The Plant! program is not the only way this organization contributes to reforestation and the fight against climate change and soil erosion in Uganda. Other initiatives, such as the Mable Trees program, ensure that fruit trees are planted in the gardens of family homes in the Malbe region of Uganda.

Additionally, Size of Wales collaborates with Indigenous peoples and local communities in Latin America, other parts of Africa, and Southeast Asia.

Katarina Vuinac

Global Battery Market: China Leads, Europe Seeks Solutions

06.03.2025

batteries_baterije_energy_storage_skladište_energije — Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Science in HD)

The global battery market is undergoing rapid development driven by soaring demand and declining prices. According to the latest report from the International Energy Agency (IEA), 2024 marks a turning point for the battery industry, as demand has surpassed 1 terawatt-hour (TWh) for the first time. At the same time, the average price of batteries for electric vehicles has fallen below $100 per kilowatt-hour, reaching the threshold of cost parity with conventional cars.

China at the Forefront of Global Production

China currently dominates the global battery market, accounting for more than three-quarters of total production. In 2024, average battery prices in China dropped by 30 percent, making them over 30 percent cheaper than in Europe and 20 percent cheaper than in North America. This price decline in recent years has resulted in many electric vehicles in China becoming more affordable than their conventional counterparts.

China’s large-scale production provides a significant competitive advantage, with the country having manufactured more than 70 percent of all electric vehicle batteries ever produced. Its focus has been on cost-effective lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries, which now make up half of the global market. Additionally, China boasts a vast number of manufacturers—over 100—which has led to reduced profit margins, highly competitive pricing, a well-developed supply chain ecosystem, and a specialized workforce.

Challenges for Europe and the U.S.

Unlike China, European battery manufacturers face a series of challenges. Production costs are, on average, 50 percent higher than in China, and many manufacturers are postponing or canceling expansion plans due to uncertain profitability. The bankruptcy of Sweden’s Northvolt—the largest European investment in domestic battery production—highlights the difficulties in competing with Asian manufacturers. However, some South Korean companies have begun investing in LFP battery production in Europe in an effort to narrow the price gap.

In the United States, battery production capacity has doubled since 2022, supported by tax incentives. However, domestic production of battery components remains insufficient. The majority of anodes and cathodes are still imported, limiting the self-sufficiency of the American industry.

While China continues to dominate, Japan and South Korea remain key players with significant investments abroad. Meanwhile, Southeast Asia and Morocco are emerging as new production hubs. Chinese investments in Indonesia have already led to the launch of battery and graphite anode production, while Morocco—home to the world’s largest phosphate reserves—is attracting substantial investments in LFP battery component manufacturing.

Despite China’s current dominance, battery production is expanding rapidly worldwide. South Korean and Japanese manufacturers are expected to continue investing in new technologies, while European and American companies will focus on reducing costs and developing their own production capacities.

Energy Portal

Shaping a Sustainable Future Through Environmental Projects

05.03.2025

Pluzine---zelene-povrsine---nakon — Photo: Eco Fund

The ecological crisis is a global challenge requiring collective effort, but local initiatives tailored to the needs of communities and their environments often serve as the starting points for change. While small ideas may lack the power to drive widespread transformation on their own, they can lead to significant improvements with the proper support. Enhancing energy efficiency, protecting the environment, and fostering sustainable development are essential for preserving nature and ensuring a secure future. The Eco Fund provides this support by financing projects addressing these critical issues. Their programs are designed for citizens, businesses, local governments, and organizations dedicated to environmental protection.

Through subsidies, the Eco Fund facilitates the implementation of environmentally friendly technologies, including adopting renewable energy sources, reducing CO2 emissions, and implementing energy efficiency measures in households, businesses, and public institutions. It also supports sustainable transport and the development of green technologies. Ecology permeates all Eco Fund activities and projects.

Projects have been implemented in collaboration with non-governmental organizations to raise awareness about the importance of the circular economy, biodiversity conservation, and responsible resource management. These projects also provide local communities with opportunities to protect natural resources actively.

IN FOCUS:

A Successful Year

In 2024, special attention was focused on activities related to pollution reduction and improving waste management. One of the most significant steps taken was remediating illegal dumpsites in 10 municipalities across Montenegro. At 61 locations, tons of waste were removed from areas exceeding 289,000 m².

The Eco Fund also invested over 1.5 million euros in modern municipal equipment for 21 municipalities, enabling more efficient waste management, improvements to existing collection and processing systems, and enhanced hygiene levels. A unique contribution was made by developing new green areas in six municipalities, covering 60,720 m². These activities included tree planting, installation of urban furniture, and the creation of spaces for recreation and leisure.

A particularly notable project focused on energy efficiency in homes, with a budget of 7.5 million euros, allowing over 4,500 applications for subsidies aimed at insulation, window replacement, and more efficient heating systems. Additionally, with a budget of 2.7 million euros, the sustainable hotels project significantly improved the tourism sector by introducing renewable energy sources and optimized consumption systems in 16 hotels. In Pljevlja, a project was implemented to improve the energy performance of collective buildings. With a budget of 1.1 million euros, work included insulation, facade replacement, and window upgrades, reducing energy losses and improving living conditions for the local population.

A standout example of success is the rural tourism support program, which aims to improve energy efficiency in households providing hospitality services. With a budget of 500,000 euros, this program contributes to reducing energy costs and increasing the sustainability of rural tourism, offering an additional incentive for rural area development. Households were also given the opportunity to replace old appliances with energy-efficient models. Last year, over 800 households replaced outdated appliances with new, energy-efficient refrigerators and ovens; even greater participation is expected in the coming year.

Prepared by Katarina Vuinac

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

World Energy Efficiency Day: How Homes Can Contribute to a Sustainable Future

05.03.2025

sijalica, led, električna energija — Photo-illustration: Unsplash (mamun-srizon)

Every year on March 5th, World Energy Efficiency Day reminds us of the importance of rational energy consumption and sustainable solutions that can reduce both household expenses and the global concern over increasing electricity demand and environmental impact.

One of the most significant steps individuals can take toward a more sustainable future is ensuring energy efficiency at home. In many regions, households are the largest consumers of electricity.

Through smart solutions and simple changes, energy consumption, electricity and gas bills, and environmental impact can be significantly reduced.

1. c – The First Step to Savings

The majority of household energy is spent on heating and cooling. Effective insulation of walls, roofs, and floors is a crucial solution. Additionally, replacing old windows with energy-efficient models can reduce heat loss by up to 30 percent.

Beyond window frames, glass itself plays an essential role. For maximum insulation, triple-glazed low-emission glass filled with argon is recommended, as it significantly reduces heat loss and increases energy savings.

2. Smart Energy Usage

Modern technology enables greater efficiency without compromising comfort. LED bulbs consume up to 80 percent less energy than traditional bulbs, while smart thermostats optimize heating and cooling based on real household needs.

Replacing light bulbs is one of the easiest steps toward energy efficiency, requiring no subsidies. LED bulbs provide the same level of brightness while using five to six times less energy and lasting up to ten times longer than conventional bulbs. Traditional bulbs typically last around 1,000 hours, whereas energy-saving alternatives can exceed 10,000 hours. Furthermore, only 5 percent of the energy used by standard bulbs is converted into light, with the remainder lost as heat, making them significantly less efficient.

3. Renewable Energy Sources – An Investment in the Future

Installing solar panels allows households to generate their own electricity, while solar collectors can be used for water heating, reducing household costs.

For instance, a house with a 50 m² roof—typical for a family home with a sloped roof—can accommodate around 25 solar panels, assuming each panel occupies approximately 2 m². If each panel has a power output of 400 W, the total system capacity would be 10 kW, potentially generating between 10,000 and 15,000 kWh of electricity annually, depending on solar radiation levels. During summer, when daylight hours are longer and energy production is higher, such a system can fully meet household needs—from powering appliances and lighting to air conditioning. Any excess energy can be stored in batteries or returned to the grid through net metering. In winter, when daylight hours are shorter and energy production lower, the solar system can still provide a significant portion of household electricity, while heating can be supplemented with solar water heaters or combined with other energy sources such as heat pumps.

4. Energy-Efficient Appliances Reduce Consumption

High-efficiency appliances can significantly contribute to savings. Modern refrigerators, washing machines, and water heaters not only reduce electricity bills but also have longer lifespans.

A major international shift occurred with the introduction of new energy labels for household appliances. Many devices previously classified within the A range (A+, A++, or A+++) have now been reassigned to lower categories, reflecting stricter classification standards. While high-efficiency appliances often have a higher upfront cost, they prove to be cost-effective in the long run due to the money saved through reduced electricity consumption.

5. Sustainable Water Management

Water conservation is just as important as energy efficiency. Installing water-saving faucets and showerheads, as well as collecting rainwater for garden use, can help households make more sustainable use of natural resources.

Energy portal

Untapped Potential – Croatia Explores Geothermal Well in Zagreb County

04.03.2025

geotermalna — Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Gruendercoach)

In Velika Gorica, a town of over 60,000 residents in Croatia, the drilling of an exploratory geothermal well has commenced, marking a step toward assessing the potential use of geothermal energy for the district heating system. The project, valued at more than €11 million, is funded through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. The well is expected to reach a depth of three kilometers, providing data on the temperature and flow rate of geothermal water, which could pave the way for potential commercial use in heating the city.

The project, Preparation and Exploration of Geothermal Potential in the Context of District Heating, represents a phase in Croatia’s transition toward sustainable energy solutions. The GT-1 well, currently being drilled in Velika Gorica, aims to confirm previous assessments of the high geothermal potential of the Pannonian Basin. According to the Croatian Ministry of Economy, the expected water temperature at the outlet will range between 90 and 140°C, sufficient for heating system applications.

As the importance of every clean energy source has been emphasized in this context, geothermal energy could prove to be a viable long-term investment and serve as a model for similar initiatives. Although Croatia possesses significant geothermal resources, they remain largely underutilized. The Pannonian Basin, where Velika Gorica is located, is known for its geothermal potential.

Previous research has indicated the feasibility of exploitation, but only through projects like this one can the actual viability and application of geothermal energy be confirmed.

Energy portal

India Builds the World’s Longest Oil Pipeline

03.03.2025

taj_mahal_tadž_mahal_india_indija — Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

India is set to achieve a new world record in the energy sector with the construction of the world’s longest liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) pipeline. The project is in its final stages, and officials have announced that the entire system will be operational by June.

The undertaking, valued at approximately $1.3 billion, is designed to significantly reduce the costs of transporting LPG by trucks across the country, improve supply efficiency, and lower the number of road accidents.

The planned pipeline, stretching 2,800 kilometers, will connect the coastal city of Kandla with the northern city of Gorakhpur. The first phase of the project is expected to be completed in March, while the entire system will be fully operational by mid-year.

Once in operation, the pipeline will be capable of transporting around 8.3 million tons of LPG annually, which accounts for approximately 25 percent of India’s total demand.

As one of the world’s most populous countries and the third-largest consumer of oil globally, India has witnessed an 80 percent increase in LPG consumption over the past decade. Consequently, in a country of this scale, continuous improvements in the energy sector are essential to maintaining efficiency and functionality.

Energy portal

The Development Agency of Serbia as a Driver of Sustainable Change

02.03.2025

Image-by-Alexa-from-Pixabay — Photo-illustration: Pixabay (Alexa)

Global trends increasingly position sustainability as a key component of success, presenting significant challenges for entrepreneurs. The Development Agency of Serbia (RAS) recognizes the importance of sustainability in business operations and actively contributes to implementing ESG principles through various initiatives and programs. The Agency strives to help businesses improve their operations, become more competitive, and attract foreign investments through education, consulting, and financial support.

RAS fully supports ESG principles, viewing them not only as essential for environmental protection but also for responsible behavior toward employees and the broader social environment. Radoš Gazdić, Acting Director of RAS, emphasizes that while the formal application of ESG principles in Serbia is not yet mandatory, it is gradually becoming a standard for good governance, particularly among large companies operating within the European Union. According to him, Serbia already has a solid foundation for further alignment with ESG principles, with nearly 27 percent of its electricity coming from renewable sources. However, he underscores the need for progress in areas such as waste management and the development of green energy.

“We are actively working on educating small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), helping them adapt to ESG standards. Since 2022, in cooperation with UNDP, numerous workshops and activities have been organized, involving over 30 participants in the RAS Supplier Development Program aimed at integrating SMEs into the supply chains of multinational companies. Additionally, at the beginning of 2024, in partnership with the International Labour Organization (ILO), training sessions were conducted focusing on Germany’s Supply Chain Due Diligence Act and EU directives, emphasizing establishing internal grievance mechanisms within companies. These activities help businesses align with modern sustainable business requirements,” explains Gazdić.

IN FOCUS:

The Agency is planning new workshops for the SME sector in collaboration with UNDP. These free workshops will enable entrepreneurs to apply ESG principles practically in their businesses. Entrepreneurs will gain concrete tools and methodologies for implementing sustainable business practices.

Foreign investors planning large-scale projects often require adherence to specific environmental and social standards, such as using green energy, reducing carbon dioxide emissions, responsible waste management, and recycling. Gazdić notes that Serbia is ready to meet these demands but reminds us that realizing major projects takes several years for investors and the state. Therefore, it is crucial to assess Serbia’s ability to respond to investors’ needs within the appropriate timeframe for project implementation.

“One of the key goals of the Development Agency of Serbia is to increase the international visibility of our country as an attractive destination for sustainable investments. We aim to enhance the country’s competitiveness in the global market by promoting the advantages Serbia offers regarding ESG standards. In this context, RAS is connecting with investments that enable the green transformation of the economy and increase Serbia’s competitiveness,” he explains.

Prepared by Milica Radičević

The story was published in the Energy portal Magazine RESPONSIBLE BUSINESS

Turkish RES Auctions: Large Projects Face Challenges, but the Solution Lies in Reforms

01.03.2025

photovoltaic-system-solarni-paneli — Foto-ilustracija: Pixabay

In 2016, Turkey launched auctions for Renewable Energy Resource Zones (YEKA) to develop large-scale solar and wind projects while simplifying land allocation and promoting domestic production of renewable energy equipment. Although the YEKA initiative represents a significant step toward achieving the country’s renewable energy goals, its implementation has faced several challenges, according to EMBER.

The first YEKA auction was held in 2017, awarding 1 GW of solar capacity. By the end of 2024, a total of 5.8 GW had been allocated—3 GW of solar and 2.8 GW of wind capacity. In early 2025, the latest auctions added 800 MW of solar and 1.2 GW of wind capacity, bringing the total awarded capacity to 7.8 GW.

As part of the Renewable Energy Roadmap, Turkey’s Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources (MENR) has set an ambitious target for 2035, aiming to allocate 2 GW of capacity annually through YEKA auctions. Additionally, by the end of 2025, another 2 GW of capacity is expected to be implemented.

Furthermore, Turkey has increased its wind and solar capacity targets by 45 percent in the National Energy Plan, aiming to nearly triple its current capacity from 32 GW to 120 GW by 2035. If MENR meets its goal of 1 GW annually for solar and wind projects through YEKA auctions, these projects would contribute only one-fifth of the required solar capacity and one-third of the wind energy targets. This shortfall has led to the new target of 2 GW per year.

Challenges in Implementation

While YEKA auctions have provided a solid framework, project implementation has encountered several difficulties. As of February 2025, only about one-quarter of the awarded capacity has been put into operation. YEKA projects have contributed just 9 percent to Turkey’s installed solar capacity and 5 percent to wind energy. If all awarded capacities had been operational, growth rates would have reached 18 percent for solar and an impressive 47 percent for wind power.

A major obstacle in project execution has been excessive bureaucracy in the permitting process, with delays in obtaining necessary approvals. Securing technical permits, land use licenses, environmental impact assessments, and construction approvals can take years.

Another challenge stems from YEKA’s local content requirements, which mandate a portion of renewable energy equipment to be manufactured in Turkey rather than imported. While this policy supports domestic production, the limited number of factories capable of meeting these requirements has forced investors to rely on a small pool of suppliers, driving up costs and straining supply chains.

Photo-illustration: Unsplash (Omkar Jadhav)

Reforms to Address Challenges

To address these challenges, Turkey amended YEKA regulations at the end of 2024. Key changes include exemptions from energy transmission fees, MENR support in obtaining permits, and the introduction of a „super permit” initiative, which reduces the permitting process from four years to less than two years.

Additionally, Turkey has significant potential for floating solar panels, which could provide up to 53 GW of energy. Regulatory changes in May 2024 now allow renewable energy facilities to be developed on offshore locations, reservoirs, and lakes, eliminating the need for urban planning approval. These areas can be designated as YEKA zones and allocated for projects.

By leveraging these opportunities and overcoming previous obstacles, Turkey can accelerate renewable energy deployment by streamlining bureaucratic processes, shortening permit approval times, and providing flexible options for electricity sales. The 2025 YEKA auctions will be a critical test for these reforms and could shape the future of Turkey’s renewable energy market.

Energetski portal

What Happens When Almost an Entire Country Loses Power – Chile’s Curfew

28.02.2025

Valparaiso_Čile2 — Foto-ilustracija: Unsplash (Bailey Hall)

Chile experienced one of the most severe power outages in the last decade on February 25, 2025, when an unexpected collapse of the electrical system in the afternoon hours led to a blackout in more than 90 percent of the country, including the capital, Santiago.

Millions of citizens were left without electricity for nearly nine hours, causing traffic chaos, disrupting emergency services, and leading to the temporary closure of the metro system and numerous stores.

The government quickly declared a state of emergency and imposed a curfew. All major hospital centers and prisons had backup generators, preventing a complete collapse. However, Santiago’s metro system, which transports more than two million passengers daily, had to urgently evacuate people from trains and suspend operations, according to international media reports.

In many parts of the country, people were trapped in elevators. In banks and other financial institutions, nearly all operations were halted, raising concerns about potential economic losses.

According to official reports, power was restored to approximately 90 percent of households in the early hours of Wednesday, February 26, while some areas remained without stable electricity supply.

As the country awaits an official report, many believe that this incident could lead to a reassessment of the current private management model of the energy sector and greater state investment in grid security.

Energy portal

1...101112...407 Page 11 of 407

IN FOCUS:

Prototype Development

More:

More:

The Plant! Program

The Planting Continues

The Bigger Goal of Size of Wales

China at the Forefront of Global Production

More:

Challenges for Europe and the U.S.

IN FOCUS:

A Successful Year

More:

More:

Wildlife Conservation in Serbia

More:

More:

IN FOCUS:

More:

Challenges in Implementation

Reforms to Address Challenges

IN FOCUS:

More:

More:

Newsletter

Calendar of events

2025 June

Events for 30 June

Events for 1 July

Events for 2 July

Events for 3 July

Events for 4 July

Events for 5 July

Events for 6 July

Events for 7 July

Events for 8 July

Events for 9 July

Events for 10 July

Events for 11 July

Events for 12 July

Events for 13 July

Events for 14 July

Events for 15 July

Events for 16 July

Events for 17 July

Events for 18 July

Events for 19 July

Events for 20 July

Events for 21 July

Events for 22 July

Events for 23 July

Events for 24 July

Events for 25 July

Events for 26 July

Events for 27 July

Events for 28 July

Events for 29 July

Events for 30 July

WRITE US