Tunisia Aims for 30-35% Renewable Energy by 2030
Tunisia is accelerating its efforts to achieve 30-35% of renewable energy (solar and wind) in its electricity mix by 2030, with a potential increase to 50% by 2035. This goal addresses both economic urgency and sovereignty, as every megawatt produced reduces dependence on imports, alleviates compensation charges, and attracts investments.
Solar Power Plants in Tozeur and Sidi Bouzid
The solar power plants in Tozeur and Sidi Bouzid, each with a capacity of 60 MW, are being developed by Scatec (a Norwegian leader with 6.2 GW managed globally) and Aeolus SAS (a subsidiary of Toyota Tsusho). Awarded through a competitive bidding process in 2019 and validated in 2021, these plants are expected to enter commercial operation in March 2026. Their annual production will reach 288 GWh of clean electricity, powering tens of thousands of households.
Financing and Support
The projects are supported by a 30-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the Tunisian Company of Electricity and Gas (STEG) and are financed by non-recourse loans from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) and Proparco, as well as concessional funds (Clean Technology Fund, FEM) and Japanese carbon credits (JCM).
Inauguration and Celebration
During the inauguration ceremony in Tozeur (an investment of 135 million dinars), the Minister of Industry, Mines, and Energy, Fatma Thabet Chiboub, celebrated the project, stating: "Energy illuminates our lives, but only renewable energy is clean and affordable. Imagine a day without electricity: it's impossible! Tunisia is moving forward with pride, from Kairouan to Tataouine, from Sidi Daoud to Gabès. This milestone in Tozeur makes the region an environmental model, combining growth and preservation."
Role of Investors and Institutions
The Minister highlighted the role of investors Scatec and Aeolus, Tunisian institutions, particularly STEG, and the teams involved, praising their professionalism. She added: "You, pioneers, are turning ideas into actions."
Scatec's Commitment to Tunisia
Maha Ben Hmidane, Director of Scatec Tunisia, presented the Tozeur solar power plant (60 MW), which covers the consumption of nearly 40,000 people over 100 hectares with 95,000 panels, for an investment of 135 million dinars (Norwegian-Japanese). She emphasized the transfer of skills to Tunisian talents, contributing to the development of local expertise in renewable energy.
Future Projects
Scatec will also inaugurate the Sidi Bouzid power plant (60 MW) on April 21, 2026, and has been selected for two photovoltaic plants of 100 MW (Tataouine and Sidi Bouzid) and a wind farm in Al-Fahs.
Economic Benefits
These projects are expected to reduce gas imports by an estimated 13 million dollars (1.2% of volumes) and generate approximately 8 million dollars in operating cost savings for STEG.
Conclusion
The realization of these projects by Scatec and Aeolus in Tunisia contributes to the development of the local economy through job creation, infrastructure strengthening, and the promotion of sustainable development. With other projects in preparation in Gafsa or Sidi Bouzid, Tunisia aims to rely on a new wave of investors to consolidate its position in energy sustainability in the region.
