Tunisia Advances Renewable Energy Goals with 500 MW Solar Contracts
Tunisia has signed contracts for four solar projects totaling 500 MW as part of a wider 1.7 GW renewable energy tender, expected to be operational by 2027. The projects will provide 1 TWh of electricity annually, covering 5% of the country’s supply. Additionally, plans for wind projects and new solar developments indicate a strong commitment to renewable energy growth.
Tunisia has made a significant advancement in its renewable energy initiatives by signing contracts for four solar photovoltaic projects that collectively amount to 500 MW. This achievement marks a critical step within the first phase of a broader tender that aims for an impressive total capacity of 1.7 GW, with the expected operational date set for 2027. Upon completion, these projects are projected to generate approximately 1 TWh of electricity annually, which would contribute around 5% to the nation’s electricity supply.
The awarded bids include three solar installations, each with a capacity of 100 MW, to be executed by reputable companies Qair International, Scatec, and Voltalia at strategic locations in El Ksar (Gafsa), Mezzouna (Sidi Bouzid), and Menzel Habib (Gabes). Additionally, Qair International has secured a further 198 MW project in Sidi Bouzid, thereby enhancing its substantial role in Tunisia’s energy landscape.
Furthermore, Tunisia’s Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Energy has announced intentions to invite bids for two upcoming wind projects, each expected to have a capacity of 75 MW, slated for procurement by March 2025.
The groundwork has also commenced on two 10 MW solar projects in the Kasserine Governorate, which are being developed by Qair and Mazarine. Moreover, a 50 MW solar installation in Tozeur, valued at around TND 135 million, is currently under construction, with Scatec and Toyota’s subsidiary, Aeolus, at the helm of this project.
Through these developments, Tunisia is demonstrating its commitment to achieving its renewable energy objectives, solidifying its status as a pivotal participant in the regional energy transition.
Tunisia’s energy sector is undergoing a transformative phase as the nation seeks to diversify its energy sources and reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The government is prioritizing renewable energy projects as part of its long-term strategy to achieve sustainable economic growth and environmental responsibility. By pursuing solar and wind energy initiatives, Tunisia aims to increase its renewable energy share while generating local employment and fostering technological advancements within the energy sector. This strategic direction is indicative of a broader trend across the region, where nations are increasingly recognizing the importance of renewable energy in combating climate change and enhancing energy security.
In conclusion, Tunisia’s recent signing of contracts for 500 MW of solar projects is a pivotal milestone in its pursuit of renewable energy. The efforts to generate 1 TWh annually signify a broader aspiration to contribute significantly to the national electricity supply. Furthermore, the planned wind projects and ongoing solar initiatives underscore Tunisia’s commitment to a sustainable energy future and its role in the transition towards clean energy solutions in the region.
Original Source: solarquarter.com
