The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has approved a loan of US$ 60 million (€55 million) to Türkiye’s Borusan EnBW Enerji for the development and construction of 116 MW of onshore wind energy in the Sivas and Tekirdağ regions. This investment marks a significant step toward Türkiye’s ambitious net-zero target of 2053.
To achieve net zero, Türkiye requires an estimated US$ 10 billion in annual financing through 2030, with a significant focus on renewable energy. Borusan EnBW Enerji, a joint venture between Borusan Holding and Germany’s EnBW AG, is one of the country’s leading energy firms, primarily concentrating on onshore wind power. Currently operating 730 MW of renewable capacity, the company will increase its total capacity to 935 MW upon completing the ongoing projects.
The wind energy expansion is expected to generate 382 GWh of renewable energy, reducing annual CO2 emissions by 243,000 tonnes. Aida Sitdikova, EBRD’s Director of Energy for Eurasia, the Middle East, and Africa, emphasized the project’s impact, stating: “Significant players like Borusan EnBW Enerji are crucial for Türkiye’s green energy transition. This project not only reduces emissions but also accelerates the country’s climate goals.”
Borusan EnBW Enerji’s General Manager, Enis Amasyali, highlighted the company’s commitment to Türkiye’s green transformation, saying, “The financing for new onshore wind power plants is a concrete indicator of our commitment. These investments will increase energy generation capacity and take vital steps toward a sustainable future.” Amasyali also noted the project’s role in ensuring energy security, affordability, and combating climate change. Additionally, Borusan EnBW Enerji aims to promote gender equality in the male-dominated energy sector by enhancing equal opportunity policies and increasing women’s representation in technical positions.
As part of the project, Borusan EnBW Enerji will also implement improved governance and accountability concerning climate-related risks, incorporating a gender lens in its corporate governance practices.
Founded 80 years ago, Borusan operates across three continents and 11 countries, creating value in five main sectors, including energy, with more than 14,000 employees. EnBW, one of Germany’s largest energy companies, has a workforce of over 28,000 and supplies electricity and gas to around 5.5 million customers.
The EBRD remains a key investor in Türkiye, having invested over €20 billion in more than 450 projects since 2009, primarily in the private sector.
(windinsider.com, 17 September, 2024)
