Tunisia has launched a tender for 1.3 GW of solar capacity, aiming to increase its renewable energy share to 35% by 2030 and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. After years of slower progress, this initiative marks a significant acceleration in deploying the country’s large-scale photovoltaic (PV) sector, with several major projects now under construction.
Tunisia’s Push for Renewable Energy via Solar Expansion
Tunisia has initiated a major renewable energy project by launching a tender to add 1.3 gigawatts (GW) of solar capacity. The announcement was made by the Tunisian Ministry of Industry and Energy, marking a significant step in the country’s efforts to diversify its energy sources and reduce its heavy reliance on imported natural gas.
This new solar capacity is a cornerstone of Tunisia’s National Renewable Energy Plan, also known as the Tunisian Solar Plan (PST). The government aims to achieve a 35% share of renewable energy in its electricity mix by 2030, with solar power playing a central role in this transition. This push is part of a broader trend seen in the [global solar report], where nations are increasingly turning to renewables for energy security.
Key Details of the Tunisia solar expansion Tender
This ambitious 1.3 GW capacity expansion is being rolled out through a multi-pronged approach. The first 500 MW tender under the concession regime is already nearing completion. On the ground, progress is tangible: the flagship 100 MW Kairouan solar plant is about 95% complete and expected to be operational by the end of 2025. Furthermore, 50 MW plants in Sidi Bouzid and Tozeur are nearly 80% finished, with the Gafsa project scheduled to follow after 2026.
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Beyond these large-scale ventures, the strategy also includes smaller installations. An authorisation framework for projects under 10 MW has led to 186 new agreements, adding another 288 MW to the grid. The projects will be developed under a public-private partnership model, with the Tunisian Electricity and Gas Company (STEG) acting as the sole buyer of the generated electricity. This model is designed to attract international investors and promote the development of the necessary infrastructure, from sourcing [raw materials] to final installation.
Impact on Tunisia’s Energy Sector from Solar Expansion
The addition of 1.3 GW of solar capacity is set to transform Tunisia’s energy sector. It will substantially reduce the country’s dependence on imported fossil fuels, which currently dominate its energy consumption. By increasing the share of renewable energy, Tunisia aims to enhance its energy security and significantly cut greenhouse gas emissions.
The solar projects will also be a boon for the country’s economic development by creating jobs and attracting foreign investment. To support this rapid expansion, Tunisia imported 655 MW of Chinese photovoltaic panels between mid-2024 and mid-2025, ranking it among Africa’s top six solar importers. This highlights the scale of the investment and the detailed planning involved, including understanding the full [plant cost breakdown] for such large ventures.
Challenges and Opportunities in Tunisia solar expansion
While the launch of the solar tender is a positive step, Tunisia still faces several challenges. One of the main obstacles is the country’s outdated energy infrastructure, which needs significant upgrades to accommodate the increased capacity from renewable sources. The government will need to invest in modernizing the grid and improving the overall efficiency of the energy system.
Another challenge is the need for ongoing regulatory reforms to create a more favorable environment for renewable energy development. While progress has been made, further streamlining of the permitting process is needed to reduce bureaucratic hurdles.
Despite these challenges, the solar tender presents immense opportunities. The country has abundant solar resources, with an average of 3,000 hours of sunshine per year. This makes it an ideal location for large-scale solar projects. Looking ahead, Tunisia is also developing wind projects and a green hydrogen strategy with an eye toward exporting clean energy to Europe, further broadening its renewable horizons.
Tunisia’s Growing Renewable Energy Sector with Solar Expansion
After a period of slower development, Tunisia is now making accelerated progress in its renewable energy sector. The country is demonstrating a clear commitment to leveraging its natural advantages to build a more sustainable energy future.
The combination of large tenders and smaller authorized projects shows a comprehensive approach. International companies like EDF Renewables, Scatec, and Engie have already won bids in previous tenders, bringing global expertise and capital into the country. Understanding the [basics of solar panel manufacturing] is crucial as these international partners help scale up local capacity.
The launch of the 1.3 GW solar initiative marks a major milestone in Tunisia’s renewable energy journey. It demonstrates the government’s commitment to transitioning to a more sustainable energy system and reducing its carbon footprint. As these projects come online, Tunisia will be well on its way to achieving its goal of 35% renewable energy by 2030.
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