Tunisia aims to boost renewable energy share

Tunisia is working to increase its renewable energy capacity to address summer electricity shortages. The country plans to raise the share of renewables in its electricity mix to 16% by 2027, up from 12% at the end of 2026. This goal is part of the draft 2027 economic budget, submitted to the Tunisian Parliament for review.

New projects outlined in the budget proposal

The budget includes plans for new energy projects, such as a 198 megawatt (MW) power plant in El Khobna and a 77 MW wind project. Another key project is a 300 MW solar power plant with battery storage in Bazma, Kebili. The Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy had already launched a tender for this solar project in March.

Authorization grants and self-production programs

The budget also outlines the continuation of the sixth cycle of authorization grants, which could add about 455 MW of new renewable capacity. The ministry evaluated applications for these grants in September. Additionally, the self-production program aims to add 500 MW from renewables, including solar installations on homes and public buildings.

Long-term energy strategy and goals

Tunisia’s energy strategy aims to increase the share of renewables in electricity production to 35% by 2030. This shift is intended to diversify the electricity mix and reduce reliance on natural gas. The draft budget also projects national electricity production to reach about 23,200 gigawatt-hours in 2027, up from 22,700 GWh in 2026. Electricity demand is expected to rise by 4% in 2027.