Tunisia’s Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Energy Approves 309 Solar Projects in Sixth Authorization Round
The Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Energy has made its decision: out of the applications submitted by June 30, 2026, for the sixth round of the authorization regime, 309 photovoltaic projects have received the green light, representing a cumulative capacity of 455 megawatts (MW).
The approved portfolio is structured across three tiers: 187 units of 1 MW, 119 units of 2 MW, and a select core of 3 projects reaching the maximum cap of 10 MW permitted for solar energy under Decree No. 2016-1123 within this regulatory framework.
The same decree also governs other green energy sectors, with capacity thresholds rising to 30 MW for wind power and 15 MW for biomass, compared to just 5 MW for other renewable energy sources. The selected sites are spread across a significant portion of the country, ranging from Gafsa to Nabeul, and including Tataouine, Kébili, Sfax, and Kairouan.
455 MW on Paper, Not Yet on the Grid
It is important to note a key distinction: these 455 MW currently represent authorized capacity, not installed production. Before this power translates into actual electricity delivery, project developers must still secure financing, complete construction, and achieve effective grid connection with the Société Tunisienne d’Exploitation des Eaux et de l’Électricité (STEG).
For Tunisian SMEs and investors, this authorization regime remains one of the most accessible entry points into the energy transition, offering moderate power caps, streamlined procedures, and a guaranteed commercial outlet through STEG.
With 309 winners in a single wave, this momentum confirms that small- and medium-scale photovoltaic is emerging as a mature investment segment, open to both industrial players and regional project developers.
