Intergovernmental framework for cross-border renewable power
Turkey, Azerbaijan, Georgia and Bulgaria are working towards an intergovernmental agreement on a new green electricity corridor that could be signed during the COP31 climate conference in Antalya in November. The proposed Green Electricity Transmission and Trade Project would establish a framework for moving renewable power between the Caucasus and European markets. It would also allow participating countries to exchange surplus output and manage periods of tighter supply.
Transit hub plans and comparison with TANAP gas corridor
Turkey views the initiative as part of a broader strategy to become a regional electricity transit hub. Energy and Natural Resources Minister Alparslan Bayraktar has compared its potential strategic importance with the TANAP gas corridor. Stronger interconnections are expected to support additional outlets for solar and wind generation in Azerbaijan and Georgia.
Route into Southeast Europe and Nakhchivan connection studies
The same interconnection build-out is described as a way to improve regional security of supply and create a new route into Southeast European markets through Turkey and Bulgaria. Turkey and Azerbaijan are separately studying a direct connection involving the Azerbaijani exclave of Nakhchivan. Initial technical work has been completed and a preferred option identified, but there is no construction timetable.
Feasibility studies, institutional terms, and cross-border capacity focus
Transmission system operators are conducting further feasibility studies. The November agreement would provide an institutional framework for the wider four-country corridor, while financing, capacity allocation and delivery schedules would still need to be resolved before construction can begin. For Southeast Europe, the project’s value is linked to whether it delivers firm cross-border capacity rather than its political label.
The region already has growing renewable surpluses, but congestion frequently prevents cheaper electricity from reaching higher-priced markets.
