Türkiye’s role as host of the COP31 climate summit is drawing scrutiny over its continued reliance on coal and plans for additional fossil-fuel power capacity, according to climate campaign group 350.org.
The group said President Recep Tayyip Erdo?an, addressing the 81st session of the UN General Assembly in New York, emphasized climate justice, implementation of existing commitments, climate finance and technology transfer. However, 350.org noted that his remarks did not include a specific reference to a phaseout of fossil fuels. Erdo?an is also scheduled to participate in a UN high-level event on climate action and the just transition on September 23.
350.org said the issue is particularly significant as Türkiye prepares to host COP31 in Antalya from November 9–20. The group argued that the country’s domestic energy plans need to be considered alongside its climate diplomacy.
According to Türkiye’s Energy Ministry, coal accounted for 33.6% of electricity generation in 2025, while natural gas contributed 23%. By the end of August 2026, coal accounted for 17.4% of installed generation capacity and natural gas for 19.5%.
350.org also pointed to plans to expand the CENAL coal-fired power plant in Karabiga, Çanakkale. The existing plant has 1,320 MW of capacity, while an environmental approval process has been initiated for an additional 1,050 MW unit, which would raise its total capacity to 2,370 MW if approved.
The group said the COP31 presidency should place the transition away from fossil fuels more prominently on the summit agenda. Its assessment comes as the COP31 presidency has been emphasizing electrification, clean energy, resilient grids and implementation. At a UN event this week, COP31 President Murat Kurum outlined a 35% electrification target by 2035 and an agenda focused on implementation rather than new pledges.
Efe Baysal of 350.org Türkiye said the country should use its position as COP31 host to demonstrate stronger domestic action, including establishing a clear timetable for phasing out coal.
“Hosting COP31 is not just a diplomatic opportunity, it’s a chance to change course,” Baysal said, calling for a national coal phaseout roadmap and stronger global action on fossil fuels.
350.org also cited recent wildfires in Antalya as an example of the climate risks facing the country. Hundreds of people were evacuated during the fires in the province earlier this month, according to the organization.
Türkiye’s national energy planning simultaneously envisages a substantial expansion of renewable generation. Its energy plan targets 29.6 GW of wind and 52.9 GW of solar capacity by 2035, alongside continued investment in other energy sources.
