The Tunisian government has announced plans to develop a 120 MW solar power plant in the Tataouine region, specifically in the Ramada West area. The project, estimated to cost around 80 million euros, will cover an area of approximately 200 hectares. The plant will be connected to the national electricity grid via a 225 KV high-voltage overhead line, which will be linked to an existing line connecting the town of Borj Bourguiba to the Tataouine power plant.
The solar power plant is expected to produce around 260 GWh of electricity per year, which is equivalent to the annual consumption of approximately 200,000 people. Additionally, the project is anticipated to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by around 130,000 tons annually. The plant will also create a significant number of jobs, both directly and indirectly, during the construction phase, and between 10 and 15 permanent jobs once the project is operational.
The project is scheduled to commence in the second quarter of 2027 and is expected to take between 15 and 18 months to complete. The plant is set to be operational by the end of 2028. A study on the environmental and social impact of the project has been conducted, which highlights the potential opportunities for improving the project's sustainability, particularly in terms of social responsibility.
The study, which is open to suggestions and observations, will be taken into consideration in coordination with the project's financiers. The Tunisian authorities have emphasized that the project aligns with the country's strategy to reduce its energy deficit, improve energy independence, and increase the share of renewable energy in the national electricity mix.
The Wali of Tataouine, Amir Al-Berenji, highlighted that the state's strategy in this field aims to reduce the energy deficit, improve energy independence, and increase the share of renewable energy in the national electricity mix. The project is seen as a key step towards achieving these goals and promoting sustainable development in the region.
The project will be implemented in accordance with international standards and best practices in the field of renewable energy. The Tunisian government has expressed its commitment to ensuring that the project is carried out in a responsible and sustainable manner, with due consideration for environmental and social concerns.
The development of the solar power plant in Tataouine is part of Tunisia's broader efforts to promote renewable energy and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. The project is expected to make a significant contribution to the country's energy sector and help to promote sustainable development in the region.
Key points
- The project aims to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by around 130,000 tons annually.
- The solar power plant is expected to produce around 260 GWh of electricity per year.
- The project will create between 10 and 15 permanent jobs once operational.
