The Tunisian electricity company, STEG, has announced the launch of tenders for the ELMED 2 project, a crucial step in strengthening the country's electrical grid. The project, which has secured financing of 43 million euros from the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), aims to construct a 400 kV power line between Grombalia 2 and Kondar, spanning approximately 85 kilometers. This development marks a significant milestone in the project's progression, as it transitions from the financing stage to the operational phase.
The EBRD published a general procurement notice for the "ELMED 2 Grid Reinforcement" project on September 23, 2026, with STEG as the project sponsor. The notice sets the estimated start date for procurement procedures at September 16, 2026. The project involves not only the construction of the power line but also the development of connection infrastructure to existing networks. The EBRD has detailed a 85 km Grombalia 2-Kondar line, as well as entry and exit lines to ensure its connection to existing transport infrastructure around Grombalia 2.
The ELMED 2 project is a critical component of Tunisia's electrical grid development strategy. The power line will play a vital role in reinforcing the corridor between the south and north of the country. According to the EBRD, this infrastructure is part of a strategic electrical corridor that will connect the south of Tunisia to the north, with the potential to transmit renewable energy produced in Tunisia to Italy. The project is guaranteed by the Tunisian state and will be implemented through the EBRD's electronic procurement platform, ECEPP.
The tenders for the ELMED 2 project are open to participation from companies of all countries, subject to specific conditions outlined in each consultation document. The project's financing is secured through a 43 million euro loan from the EBRD, which will be used to support the construction of the power line and associated infrastructure. The launch of tenders marks a significant step towards the project's implementation, which is expected to create new opportunities for local and international companies.
The ELMED 2 project is closely linked to the ELMED project, an underwater electrical interconnection between Tunisia and Italy. The ELMED project aims to establish a 600 MW interconnection between the two countries, with a 200 km undersea cable connecting their electrical networks. The ELMED 2 project represents a critical onshore component of this interconnection, providing the necessary infrastructure to support the transmission of renewable energy from Tunisia to Italy.
The successful implementation of the ELMED 2 project will have a significant impact on Tunisia's energy sector. The project will not only strengthen the country's electrical grid but also contribute to the development of renewable energy sources. The EBRD's involvement in the project underscores the bank's commitment to supporting sustainable energy development in Tunisia and the wider region.
The ELMED 2 project is expected to move forward rapidly, with the procurement procedures set to commence in the coming weeks. The project's implementation will be closely monitored by the EBRD and the Tunisian authorities, ensuring that the project is completed on time and within budget. The successful completion of the ELMED 2 project will mark a significant milestone in Tunisia's energy sector development.
Key points
- The ELMED 2 project involves the construction of a 400 kV power line between Grombalia 2 and Kondar, spanning approximately 85 kilometers.
