Tunisia is moving forward with its renewable energy ambitions through a new international financing partnership supporting the construction of a 100 MW solar photovoltaic (PV) power plant in the Sidi Bouzid region.
The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), the European Investment Bank (EIB), and the European Union (EU) are backing the project with a financing package of up to €61.3 million for the Scatec-Aeolus joint venture. The initiative aims to strengthen Tunisia’s energy security, reduce dependence on natural gas, and accelerate the country’s clean energy transition.
The solar facility is expected to generate around 252 GWh of renewable electricity every year once operational. It will help lower carbon emissions by approximately 107,000 tonnes annually while increasing the share of renewable energy in Tunisia’s electricity supply.
The project is part of Tunisia’s wider renewable energy strategy, including its goal of sourcing 35% of energy from renewable sources by 2030. It also supports the country’s efforts to diversify energy production and improve resilience against global energy market pressures.
The European Union is contributing additional support through guarantees and grant funding for essential transmission infrastructure. A €5.5 million grant will help finance the connection systems needed to integrate the solar plant into the national electricity network.
Beyond energy generation, the project is expected to encourage private sector investment and create new opportunities in Tunisia’s renewable energy industry. Technical support will also focus on workforce development, particularly in regions connected to the project, helping prepare local communities for future energy sector jobs.
Officials from the EBRD, EIB, and EU highlighted the project as an example of international cooperation supporting affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions.
With continued investment in renewable infrastructure, Tunisia aims to strengthen energy independence, reduce emissions, and build a more resilient economy powered by clean energy.
