Tunis: The High Committee for Private Electricity Generation, led by Prime Minister Sarah Zaafrani Zenzri, has approved several renewable energy projects, including a 77.25 MW wind power initiative in Zaghouan. This decision was reached during a meeting focused on expanding Tunisia's renewable energy capacity through concession agreements, aiming for a total of 600 MW in wind energy.
According to Agence Tunis Afrique Presse, the Zaghouan wind project is set to produce approximately 290 GWh annually, contributing 1.3% to the national electricity output. It is expected to save around 60,000 tonnes of oil equivalent in natural gas each year, valued at about USD 30 million, and reduce electricity production costs by TND 53 million annually. The project will also support regional development, job creation, and cut around 130,000 tonnes of CO2-equivalent emissions yearly.
In addition to the wind project, the Committee approved two solar photovoltaic projects, each with a capacity of 100 MW, in Tataouine and Gabes. These solar projects are part of a broader solar energy concession scheme targeting an 800 MW capacity. Together, the solar installations are projected to generate about 550 GWh per year, saving 110,000 toe of natural gas, valued at approximately USD 55 million, and cutting generation costs by TND 107 million annually. They will also prevent 253,000 tonnes of CO2-equivalent emissions and boost local economies.
The Committee further endorsed upcoming tenders for 2026-2027, which include several wind projects across different regions, totaling 2,000 MW, and a 350 MW solar photovoltaic project with battery storage in Bazma (Kebili).
Additionally, the Committee approved the monetisation of carbon credits and reviewed progress on the current 1,700 MW renewable energy projects under procurement. Prime Minister Zenzri emphasized Tunisia's commitment to achieving strategic renewable energy targets and energy sovereignty, highlighting the importance of the National Energy Strategy and the Tunisia-Italy electricity interconnection project.
The Prime Minister stressed the urgency of accelerating renewable projects to reach the national goal of 35% renewable energy in the electricity mix by 2030, urging stakeholders to overcome any administrative or logistical hurdles.
An update on project progress revealed that Tunisia's first 100 MW solar PV plant in Metbasta (Kairouan) became operational on December 16, 2025. Commissioning trials for two 50 MW solar plants in Mezzouna (Sidi Bouzid) and Tozeur began in December 2025, with full commissioning anticipated by year-end.