Tunisia Awards 500MW Solar Contracts

Key Figures & Findings:
Tunisia’s Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Energy has awarded contracts for over 500MW of solar capacity, part of a broader 1.7GW renewable energy initiative. The tenders, divided into two rounds, were awarded to leading developers Qair International, Voltalia, and Scatec. Voltalia’s project, initially set for 100MW, has been expanded to 139MW under a 25-year electricity sales contract. This move signifies Tunisia’s commitment to diversifying its energy mix and reducing its dependence on fossil fuels, which currently account for 97% of electricity generation. Qair International is also tasked with developing a 198MW project in Sidi Bouzid.

Statistics & Insights:
The most competitive rate for awarded contracts is approximately €0.29/kWh (US$0.30/kWh), far below the €79.28/MWh (US$83.3/MWh) average price from similar auctions in France. Tunisia plans to add 500MW annually until 2030, requiring investments of US$300 million annually to meet its 35% renewable energy generation target.

Future Implications:
These projects could reduce Tunisia’s reliance on imported natural gas, which accounted for nearly 47% of the country’s needs in mid-2023 while contributing to a significant shift towards renewable energy.

Source: PV-Tech