A Major Leap Forward for Tunisia's Energy Sovereignty
The Tunisian government has taken a significant step towards achieving energy sovereignty. On Thursday, January 15, 2026, a new financing agreement worth 43 million euros (approximately 145 million dinars) was officially announced at the Ministry of Economy and Planning. This partnership between the Tunisian Company of Electricity and Gas (STEG) and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) marks the launch of the second phase of the ELMED II project, a strategic electricity link connecting Tunisia to Italy.
Concrete Infrastructure for a More Robust Network
This financing will translate into major construction projects on the ground. On the one hand, an "electricity highway" will be created, consisting of a 400 kV double overhead line connecting Grombalia 2 to Kandar over a distance of 85 km. On the other hand, increased connectivity will be achieved through the deployment of 20 km of additional 225 kV lines to facilitate energy transport around the Grombalia 2 station. The objective is to modernize the national grid to support higher loads and ensure a stable supply throughout the country.
A Lever for Ecological Transition
This project is also a key component of Tunisia's energy strategy. By facilitating the transfer of electricity produced in the South (notably through solar energy) to areas of high consumption in the North, Tunisia is giving itself the means to achieve its ambitions: reaching 35% of renewable energy by 2030.
"The partnership with the EBRD is a testament to the solidity of our relations and the trust placed in STEG to carry out national and regional projects of this magnitude," said Faycel Tarifa, CEO of STEG, during the signing ceremony, according to the official press release.
Consolidating Interconnection with Europe
By strengthening this interconnection with Europe, Tunisia is not only modernizing its cables but also asserting itself as a key player in the Mediterranean energy sector.
