Where Does Turkey Stand in the Quest for Civilian Nuclear Energy in the Middle East?

Authors : Nurşin Ateşoğlu GÜNEY

Pages : 85-106

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Publication Date : 2017-08-01

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Some Middle Eastern states have proposed massive projects for building nuclear power plants NPP as part of their energy security plans to cut down reliance on electricity production from gas or hydro resources. The gold standard of attaining nuclear energy was introduced to the region by the UAE’s experience and then Turkey came up with the BOO model of acquisition for its first NPP. The attraction of the BOO model is not only the financial relief that it brings for the aspirant country, but also the non-proliferation characteristics it carries. Turkey’s second attempt at a BOT model nuclear plant is also in line with its aim of developing civilian nuclear energy, along with international nonproliferation frameworks. This paper examines why and how Turkey launched its civilian nuclear project as part of its energy supply security trajectory and where it currently stands in the Middle East from the perspective of nuclear non-proliferation
Keywords : Akkuyu, ATMEA1, Russian Federation, Turkey, Japan, BOO, BOT