The Coal Mines Database Study is a data collection and analysis project covering coal mining initiatives in Türkiye between 1 August 2021 and 31 October 2025. The study was carried out by CAN Europe. The aim of the study is to make visible how coal mine expansions and new coal field initiatives are effectively creating the conditions to extend the operational lifetime of existing coal-fired power plants.
Although investments in new domestic coal-fired thermal power plants in Turkey have slowed significantly, electricity generation from coal continues through coal subsidies and long-term coal purchase agreements between the public and private sectors. In parallel, existing coal fields are being expanded and new mines are being opened.
These developments indicate that energy policies should not be assessed solely on the basis of installed power and power plant capacity, but rather from a more comprehensive perspective that also includes mining activities.
Coal mining activities create increasing spatial pressure on forests, pastures and agricultural lands, raise the risks of water pollution and excessive water consumption, and directly transform how local communities use and live in their territories.
At a time when the impacts of the climate crisis are becoming increasingly severe, policies aimed at maintaining or increasing coal production create a controversial context in terms of alignment with Türkiye‘s long-term climate goals, while also posing potential negative impacts on public health and natural ecosystems.
Read the full report in Turkish language here