The initial instance of this pioneering initiative takes root in Van. As part of efforts to fulfill energy demands through domestic and national resources, groundwork is underway to identify underground assets within Van, paving the way for imminent production.
Ambitious projects are set to unfold in metallic mineral ventures, renewable energy domains, and the pursuit of oil and gas reservoirs. The focus for oil and natural gas activities is expected to be on the villages of Beşparmak, Kürzot, Amik, Haraşik, and Bakraçlı, situated in the Muradiye district of Van. A notable precedent was established by the British in 2004, as they discerned petroleum reserves at depths of approximately 2,000 meters across thirteen distinct coordinates within this terrain. The first drilling well was opened in the village of Bakraçlı at the Kurttepe location, identified as the most oil-rich area within the reserve, with a possibility of 70% oil extraction according to the assessments conducted at that time.
Subsequent studies revealed that the quantity of oil was limited, the rock structure was fragile, and oil seeped deeper, leading to the discontinuation of activities. Experts state that with contemporary tools and advanced capabilities, deeper explorations are feasible. The region is not only host to oil but also to deposits of perlite and pumice. The area holds reserves of 154.625 million cubic meters of pumice and 1.4 million tons of perlite. Van stands out not only for its petroleum potential but also its suitability for solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal energy investments.
The city of Van stands as a beacon of potential with an annual solar energy capacity of 1,700-1,750 kilowatt-hours, 528.72 gigawatt-hours of hydroelectric capacity, and 70.88 megawatts of wind power potential.
In parallel with these developments, Van emerges as a hub for solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal energy investments—an accolade attributed to its geographical propitiousness and capacity for sustainable energy innovation.
Translated by: Khan Muhammad An Nazmus Saqib
