Smart grid systems can provide greater economic benefits and more efficient service production, according to the Chairman of ICSG 2018 Executive Committee Mehmet Erturk on Wednesday.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the sixth International Istanbul Smart Grids and Cities Congress and Fair (ICSG 2018), Erturk said that in line with Turkey’s 2023 vision, which consists of specific economic goals leading up to the country's centennial in 2023, the goal of expanding smart applications and systems at every economic level, including in energy and transportation, along with the aim to transform to smart cities, are key for Turkey.
The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan Princess Sana Assem and the Arab Renewable Energy Commission's Chairwoman expressed the importance of renewable energy cooperation between Turkey and Arab countries.
'I look forward to the creation of a Turkish-Arab renewable energy platform, which will increase bilateral investments and further exchanges, ensuring more cooperation,' she said.
Mustafa Yilmaz, president of the Turkish Energy Market Regulatory Authority (EMRA) conveyed the authority's support for smart grid research and development (R&D) projects and said he envisages the introduction of advanced grid technologies.
He detailed the authority's budget for R&D with planned investments of approximately 200 million Turkish liras and 1 billion liras for improvements to the grid operating system for the 2016-2020 implementation period for electricity distribution companies.
'Since the July 2014 period, we have received 151 R&D projects, totaling about 164 million liras for electricity and natural gas distribution, at January 2018 prices,' Yilmaz said.
- The ICSG 2018
The ICSG 2018 hosts researchers, practitioners, developers and users of smart grids from at least 50 countries countries, including Jordan, Azerbaijan, the U.S., Italy, China, and Iran.
According the organization’s committee, the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) and Turkey's Economy Ministry support the congress and fair, while Anadolu Agency is the global communication partner.
During the congress and fair, which will conclude on Thursday, participants can avail of the opportunity to discuss cutting-edge ideas, solutions and new innovation, along with the ability to share techniques, tools, and experiences.
By Firdevs Yuksel
Anadolu Agency
energy@aa.com.tr