Georgia will activate a new electricity exchange mechanism with Turkey, allowing for a seasonal “barter” system. Under the changes approved by the Ministry of Economy, Georgia will export electricity to Turkey between May and July 2026, with Turkey returning the same volume back to Georgia in autumn, from September to November. A similar mechanism was last used in 2018.
According to the decree, the aim is to ensure the stable and reliable operation of Georgia’s power system by managing seasonal electricity surpluses in spring–summer and covering shortages in autumn–winter. The exported volumes will be allocated through a special rule outside the standard balancing procedures, and market operators must submit contracts and forecasts to the dispatcher one day in advance.
The document also introduces new temporary operating rules for power plants during surplus periods, which typically occur in spring when hydropower generation increases. Plants with guaranteed power purchase agreements or contracts for difference are exempt if they have mandatory supply obligations during that period. Failure to comply may result in refusal to register contracts.
Georgia continues to rely on electricity imports, especially in winter. In the first four months of 2026, local generation increased to 4.2 billion kWh, but consumption exceeded 5.1 billion kWh, requiring 1.1 billion kWh of imports. In 2025, the country produced 13.8 billion kWh yet consumed 14.9 billion kWh, remaining a net importer. Turkey was the largest export destination last year, receiving 401 million kWh of Georgian electricity.
