The first fully Tunisian-funded photovoltaic megaproject in Kairouan progresses rapidly, promising enhanced energy independence and reduced fossil fuel imports
Construction of the Chebika photovoltaic power plant in the Kairouan governorate of central Tunisia has reached approximately 34 percent completion, project manager Tayeb Al Qatari confirmed to local radio station Diwan FM, with full commercial operation scheduled for December 2026.
The 100-megawatt (MW) solar facility represents a historic milestone as the first renewable energy project of its scale to be entirely financed by Tunisian authorities and executed through domestic expertise across all design, engineering, and construction phases.
Landmark Project Fully Funded and Engineered Domestically
Valued at 280 million Tunisian dinars (approximately 82 million euros), the sprawling installation covers 200 hectares and will feature roughly 170,000 solar panels upon full deployment. The project stands as a testament to Tunisia’s growing technical capacity to independently deliver large-scale strategic infrastructure without reliance on foreign funding or international contractors.
According to Al Qatari, the initiative carries profound strategic importance for Tunisia, extending well beyond its renewable energy generation capabilities.
Economic and Environmental Gains for National Strategy
By displacing imported fossil fuels, the Chebika plant is expected to substantially strengthen national energy independence while containing domestic energy costs. The project also aligns directly with Tunisia’s climate commitments, promising significant reductions in carbon emissions as the country pursues its sustainable development goals.
“The plant will help reduce the consumption of imported fossil fuels, strengthening the country’s energy independence and containing national energy costs,” Al Qatari stated, emphasizing the project’s dual economic and environmental dividends.
Cornerstone of Tunisia’s Renewable Energy Roadmap
The Chebika solar farm forms a central pillar of Tunisia’s broader national strategy to increase the share of renewables within the electricity mix, diversify energy supply sources, and attract further investment in green projects. Tunisian authorities view such homegrown initiatives as vital catalysts for economic growth, employment creation, and the cultivation of national technical expertise in renewable energy infrastructure.
With completion targeted for December 2026, the project is poised to bolster Tunisia’s energy security while showcasing the country’s capacity to independently develop and execute major clean energy ventures.
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