YEKDEM and Net Metering: Turkey Solar Incentives Explained (2026)
Turkey's solar incentive landscape can appear complex to newcomers. This guide demystifies the two main mechanisms — YEKDEM (the feed-in tariff for large plants) and net metering (for smaller systems) — and explains how each applies to different investor and homeowner profiles in 2026.
Overview: Turkey's Two Solar Incentive Tracks
Turkey operates a two-track incentive system for solar energy, based primarily on system size:
- Unlicensed generation with net metering — for systems up to 1 MW. Simpler process, no EPDK licence required.
- Licensed generation with YEKDEM — for systems above 50 kWp seeking feed-in tariff support. EPDK licence required.
Net Metering (Unlicensed Scheme) — Up to 1 MW
Turkey's net metering scheme is regulated under the Electricity Market Licensing Regulation and allows consumers with rooftop and small ground-mount solar systems (up to 1 MW) to operate without an EPDK electricity generation licence. Key features of the 2026 framework:
- No EPDK licence required — only a TEDAŞ grid connection application
- Bidirectional smart meter installed at no cost (included in TEDAŞ application)
- Surplus generation is credited against your electricity bill at the same rate you pay for imports
- Unused credits carry forward monthly (limited to annual consumption total)
- Available to residential, commercial and industrial consumers
- System capacity: up to 1,000 kW (1 MW) per metering point
- Applicable to rooftop and ground-mount systems connected at low voltage
How Net Metering Works in Practice
| Month | Solar Generation (kWh) | Consumption (kWh) | Net Bill |
|---|---|---|---|
| July (Peak sun) | 1,800 | 1,100 | Zero + 700 kWh credit |
| August | 1,750 | 1,400 | Zero + 350 kWh credit |
| December | 800 | 1,200 | 400 kWh × ₺3.50 = ₺1,400 |
| Full Year | 15,500 | 14,000 | Zero (1,500 kWh credit) |
*Example: 10 kWp system in Mediterranean region. Annual generation exceeds consumption — zero annual electricity cost.
YEKDEM — The Feed-in Tariff for Licensed Plants
YEKDEM (Yenilenebilir Enerji Kaynakları Destekleme Mekanizması — Renewable Energy Sources Support Mechanism) provides a guaranteed feed-in tariff for all electricity generated by licensed renewable energy plants for 10 years from commissioning. For solar PV:
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Solar PV Tariff Rate | $0.133 per kWh (USD) |
| Tariff Duration | 10 years from commissioning |
| Currency | USD (paid in Turkish lira equivalent) |
| Bonus for Domestic Equipment | +$0.02–$0.04/kWh for local components |
| Applicable Size | ≥50 kWp (requires EPDK licence) |
| Application | Quarterly EPDK licence rounds |
YEKDEM vs Net Metering — Which Is Better?
| Factor | Net Metering | YEKDEM |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Size | No minimum | ~50 kWp practical minimum |
| Maximum Size | 1 MW | No maximum |
| EPDK Licence | Not required | Required |
| Revenue | Electricity bill offset | $0.133/kWh for 10 years |
| Revenue Certainty | Depends on electricity price | USD tariff — high certainty |
| Bankability | Lower | High — suitable for project finance |
| Setup Time | 4–8 weeks | 6–18 months |
Which Scheme Is Right for You?
- Residential homeowners: Net metering — simple, fast, no licence, zero annual electricity bill
- Commercial businesses: Net metering up to 1 MW — fast ROI, covers most of daytime consumption
- Large businesses over 1 MW: EPDK licence + YEKDEM for the licensed portion
- Dedicated investors: EPDK + YEKDEM — provides bankable USD revenue stream for project finance
- Agricultural users: Net metering for on-farm systems — simpler and eligible for IPARD II grants
Navigate Turkish Solar Incentives with an Expert
Our regulatory team guides you through the right incentive pathway for your system size and goals. Free consultation, no commitment.