New Solar Power Capacity for Industrials in 2026: What Does the Self-Consumption Model Mean?
Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar's recent statement suggests that 2026 could open a new chapter for industrialists. However, to interpret this news correctly, some distinctions need to be clarified.
First, let's understand the situation: Two different categories.
There are two main models for unlicensed solar power plant investments, and it's important not to confuse them:
1. General Unlicensed Production: You can both use the electricity you produce yourself and sell the surplus to the grid. This is the category for which TEİAŞ has not opened capacity since July 2025.
2. Self-Consumption Model: You only use the electricity you produce within your own facility. There is no obligation to sell it to the grid. The 3,500 MW capacity announced by Minister Bayraktar for 2026 is for this category.
So the news is this: While capacity constraints continue for general unlicensed projects, A new window is opening for projects aimed at self-consumption..
How big is 3,500 MW?
Let's make the number concrete:
- Approximately 700-1,000 units Solar power systems can be installed on the roofs of medium-sized industrial facilities.
- Estimated investment value: 2 billion dollars
- Comparison: A total of 8,200 MW of renewable capacity will be commissioned in 2025.
Who is the Self-Consumption Model Suitable For?
This model makes particular sense for investors with the following profile:
- Facilities with high electricity consumption: Production facilities, warehouses, and cold storage facilities with high monthly electricity bills.
- Businesses that are busy during the day: Efficiency increases if solar energy production and consumption hours coincide.
- Those who want to stabilize their energy costs: Those who want to be independent from fluctuating electricity prices
On the other hand, this model is not suitable for those who want to generate revenue by selling excess production. They need to wait for the general allocation of unlicensed capacity.
Other Notable Developments in 2026
Other key points from the minister's statements:
- DSI Irrigation Projects: 1,500 MW capacity for agricultural irrigation. Aims to reduce irrigation costs.
- Floating solar power plant: The target for dams and reservoirs is 3,000 MW. This allows for capacity increases without land constraints.
- Energy Storage: 2,000 MW storage facility and the new DEKA tender model. Critical for enabling the use of solar energy at night as well.
Conclusion
This new period, following a 5-month capacity restriction, presents a significant opportunity for prepared investors. Especially for rooftop installations and self-consumption projects, conducting feasibility studies now will allow you to act quickly when capacity opens up.
