In a significant move to accelerate its energy transition, Tunisia’s High Committee for Private Electricity Generation, chaired by Prime Minister Sarah Zaafrani Zenzri, has approved a major new wind power project and outlined an extensive pipeline of future tenders aimed at securing energy sovereignty.
Anchor Project Approved
The committee gave the green light to a 77.25 MW wind farm in Zaghouan, the first project under a 600 MW wind concession tender. According to a Prime Ministry statement, the farm is projected to produce 290 GWh of electricity annually—meeting roughly 1.3% of national demand. Its operation will cut natural gas imports by an estimated 60,000 tonnes per year, saving $30 million and reducing carbon emissions by 130,000 tonnes annually.
Solar Projects Get Nod, Broader Strategy Unveiled
Alongside the wind project, two 100 MW solar photovoltaic plants in Tataouine and Gabes were approved under a separate 800 MW solar scheme. Combined, these three new projects are expected to save over $85 million in gas imports yearly and prevent 383,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions.
Looking ahead, the government unveiled an ambitious tender schedule for 2026-2027, targeting an additional 1,900 MW of wind power across sites in Kebili, Nabeul, Gafsa, Zaghouan, Medenine, and Kasserine. A 350 MW solar tender with battery storage for Bazma (Kebili) was also announced.
Monetizing Green Progress and Tracking Momentum
In a key decision, the committee formally approved the monetization of carbon credits from these projects through international markets. Progress was reviewed on a 1,700 MW portfolio of renewable projects currently under procurement.
Prime Minister Zenzri underscored the strategic urgency, stating, “We must accelerate the delivery of renewable projects to reach our national goal of 35% renewable energy in our electricity mix by 2030.” She highlighted the role of initiatives like the Tunisia-Italy ELMED interconnection in positioning the country as a future regional hub for clean energy.
Current Projects Near Completion
The update confirmed tangible progress: Tunisia’s first 100 MW solar plant in Metbasta, Kairouan, began commercial operation on December 16, 2025. Two 50 MW solar plants in Mezzouna and Tozeur entered commissioning trials in December 2025, with full operation expected imminently.
The sweeping approvals signal a concerted push by the Tunisian government to leverage private investment, through concession models, to address its energy deficit, curb budget-draining fuel imports, and fast-track its national climate strategy.
TunisianMonitorOnline (NejiMed)
