The Tunisian government has announced plans to build a 120 MW solar photovoltaic power plant in the Remada Ouest region of Tataouine. The project, valued at approximately €80 million, was presented during a working session at the Tataouine governorate. The plant will span around 200 hectares and will be accompanied by a 225-kilovolt high-voltage overhead power line, stretching two kilometers. This infrastructure will connect the plant to the Société tunisienne de l'électricité et du gaz (STEG) network.
The solar power plant is expected to produce around 260 gigawatt-hours of electricity per year, equivalent to the annual consumption of approximately 200,000 inhabitants. The project is also anticipated to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by nearly 130,000 tons per year. During the construction phase, the project is expected to create a significant number of direct and indirect jobs. Once operational, the plant will maintain between 10 and 15 permanent jobs.
The construction work is scheduled to start in the second quarter of 2027 and is expected to last between 15 and 18 months. The project is slated for completion by the end of 2028. An environmental and social impact study was also presented during the session, which must be conducted in accordance with international standards. The study aims to identify opportunities to enhance the project's environmental and social sustainability.
The study remains open to proposals and observations, which will be considered in coordination with the funding party. Participants emphasized the project's social responsibility aspects. Amir Bernji, the Governor of Tataouine, highlighted that the project aligns with the national strategy to reduce the energy deficit, strengthen Tunisia's energy independence, and increase the share of renewable energy in the national electricity mix.
The future power plant will be connected to the STEG network via an existing line linking Borj Bourguiba to the Tataouine power plant. The project's components were presented during the working session, which was attended by various stakeholders. The plant's implementation is expected to have a positive impact on the local economy and environment.
The project's development is in line with Tunisia's efforts to increase its renewable energy capacity and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. The solar power plant will contribute to the country's goal of increasing the share of renewable energy in its electricity mix. The project is also expected to have a positive impact on the local community, creating jobs and stimulating economic growth.
The Tunisian government has been actively promoting renewable energy projects in recent years, aiming to reduce the country's energy deficit and increase its energy independence. The 120 MW solar power plant in Tataouine is one of several projects underway to achieve this goal. The project's success will be closely monitored, and its impact is expected to be felt for years to come.
Key points
- The project will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by nearly 130,000 tons per year.
- The solar power plant will produce around 260 gigawatt-hours of electricity per year.
- The project is expected to create a significant number of direct and indirect jobs during the construction phase.
