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Mehmet Hanifi GÜLEL
The decision by the Energy Market Regulatory Authority (EPDK) to implement a 30% increase in electricity prices for agricultural subscribers starting from July 1, 2024, has deterred producers from planting second crops. It has been stated that electricity is heavily used in second crop cultivation and drip Irrigation, particularly impacting small farmers who are reported to be pulling away from production.
It is emphasized that inputs such as diesel, fertilizers, and agricultural chemicals are already high in Turkey, and the 30% electricity hike for agricultural subscribers is expected to exacerbate food inflation. While efforts are made to reduce food inflation, the recent electricity price increase is said to be pushing farmers away from production and investments in Modern Irrigation Systems.
Additionally, it is highlighted that no agricultural product experiences a 30% price hike, yet the electricity price increase could render irrigated agriculture unsustainable. Particularly in regions like Mardin, Şanlıurfa, Diyarbakır, and Gaziantep, farmers are reported to have abandoned the planting of second crops due to high temperatures.
“The price hike will reflect as food inflation for consumers”
Mutlu Doğru, President of the Adana Farmers’ Union, pointed out that the 30% electricity increase will raise the costs of irrigated crops, ultimately affecting consumers. He noted that the hike poses a significant burden on agricultural subscribers.
“50% of Irrigation in Diyarbakır is powered by electricity”
Mehmet Cevat Delil, President of the Diyarbakır Chambers of Agriculture Coordination, stated that due to high electricity prices, farmers will halt their production efforts. He warned that farmers will be unable to continue irrigated production using electricity.
“60% of farmers in Mardin have abandoned second crops”
Bedirhan Dinler, President of the Mardin Kızıltepe Agricultural Chamber, reported that many farmers in the region have ceased planting second crops due to the electricity price increase, with an abandonment rate of 60%.
“Production in our region is expected to decrease by 50%”
Cuma Yiğit, President of the Gaziantep Chambers of Agriculture Coordination, asserted that the 30% electricity hike will prevent farmers from continuing to produce and will adversely affect all consumers. Yiğit emphasized that farmers will not be able to bear the increase, leading to a negative impact on production.
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Source: Tarım Haberleri
John Peterson graduated with a degree in Agricultural Sciences from Wageningen University in the Netherlands. His specialization is in sustainable crop production and soil health management. John is passionate about integrating modern technology with traditional farming methods to enhance productivity while preserving the environment. He currently works as a consultant, helping farmers adopt sustainable practices.
