Tunisia, Japan, Norway Ink $13M Deal

Key Figures & Findings: The Japanese government has awarded a ¥2 billion (approximately a $13 million) grant to a 100 MW photovoltaic project in Sidi Bouzid, Tunisia. The project will be implemented by a Japanese-Norwegian joint venture in collaboration with the Tunisian government and the Société Tunisienne de l’Électricité et du Gaz (STEG). The initiative also falls under the Carbon Credit Exchange Mechanism (CCEM) established during TICAD8 in August 202. and follows two ongoing solar efforts in Sidi Bouzid and Tozeur

Statistics & Insights: The Sidi Bouzid solar project is one of four new solar initiatives totaling 500 MW, with other projects located in Gafsa (100 MW) and Gabes (100 MW). These projects are part of Phase 1 of Tunisia’s 1,700 MW renewable energy tender under concession agreements. Once operational by 2027, they are expected to generate 1,100 GWh annually, accounting for 5% of Tunisia’s electricity output. This will result in savings of approximately 250,000 tons of natural gas annually, equivalent to $125 million, and reduce electricity production costs by 200 million dinars annually.

Future Implications: If executed on schedule, these projects could help Tunisia meet its energy transition targets, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and attract future public-private investments across key governorates like Sidi Bouzid, Gafsa, Gabes, and Medenine.

Source:  African Manager