Positive Discrimination for the Agriculture Sector and the Need to Revoke Electricity Price Increases

“Positive discrimination should be applied to the agriculture sector, and the 30% electricity price increase must be revoked”

ANKARA – 30.06.2024 Şemsi Bayraktar, the President of the Turkish Union of Agricultural Chambers (TZOB), addressed the recent electricity price hikes.

Electricity usage has increased in our country due to the growth of greenhouse and livestock farming. The electricity consumption in agricultural irrigation also rose accordingly.

According to data from the Energy Market Regulatory Authority (EPDK), the electricity price for agricultural irrigation subscribers was set at 256.46 kuruş as of June 2024.

EPDK announced that there would be an increase in final electricity sales prices due to rising energy production costs. Starting from July 1, 2024, electricity prices will increase by 38% for residential subscribers, 30% for agricultural activities, and between 20% to 38% for public and private service sectors.

This year, above-normal temperatures have caused extreme weather events in many regions. Excessive heat has increased the water demand for irrigated crops, making it difficult for our farmers to cope with rising water and electricity costs.

Under these circumstances, the 30% increase in electricity prices will further elevate irrigation costs, threatening the sustainability of production.

It should not be forgotten that positive discrimination must be applied to the agriculture sector to ensure and maintain food security. To reduce the costs of electricity in agricultural production and ensure sustainability, it is essential to revoke the 30% increase effective from July 1, 2024.