Turkey said it has received $9 billion in new financing from Russia to support construction of the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant. The funding will help maintain steady progress on Turkey’s first nuclear facility as the country works toward an operational start in 2026.

Details of the new financing

Turkey’s Energy Minister Alparslan Bayraktar said the new funds will mainly cover foreign financing needs from 2026 onward. According to him, around $4–5 billion is expected to be used during 2026, while the remaining amount will support later project phases.

He explained that the financing strengthens planning certainty. It also helps ensure uninterrupted construction during a critical stage of the project. As a result, authorities expect smoother coordination with contractors and suppliers.

Background of the Akkuyu project

The Akkuyu plant is being built by Rosatom under a build-own-operate model. Turkey and Russia signed the agreement in 2010, valuing the project at about $20 billion.

Officials initially planned for the plant to begin operations in 2025. However, the timeline later shifted to 2026 as construction schedules and financing arrangements evolved.

Strategic role in Turkey’s energy plans

Turkey considers nuclear power a key pillar of its long-term energy strategy. Officials say the Akkuyu plant will reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels. It will also strengthen energy security by providing stable base-load electricity.

Once fully operational, the plant is expected to supply a meaningful share of Turkey’s power demand. Authorities say this will support both industrial growth and long-term energy resilience.

Broader nuclear ambitions

Beyond Akkuyu, Turkey continues to explore additional nuclear projects. Officials confirmed that discussions remain ongoing for potential plants in Sinop and Trakya.

Bayraktar said Turkey aims to diversify partnerships for future nuclear development. According to him, engaging with multiple countries helps balance technology access and financing options.

Renewable energy developments

Alongside nuclear investment, Turkey is also expanding its renewable energy portfolio. The energy minister said talks continue with international firms on large-scale solar projects.

One proposed solar package involves 5,000 megawatts of capacity. The first phase could become operational in early 2026, depending on final agreements and project approvals.

What happens next

Officials stressed that the new financing does not change Turkey’s commitment to completing the Akkuyu plant. Instead, it provides greater financial clarity during the final construction stages.

As work progresses, authorities expect to share updates on commissioning milestones. Once operational, the Akkuyu plant will mark a major shift in Turkey’s national energy landscape.