Tunisia inaugurates 50 MW solar plant in Tozeur, eyes energy independence
Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- Tunisia inaugurated a 50-megawatt solar power plant in Tozeur on April 20, 2026, marking a step in its energy transition.
- The project, costing 135 million dinars and covering 100 hectares, aims to meet 70% of Tozeur's electricity needs and reduce natural gas imports.
- This initiative aligns with Tunisia's national program to generate 500 MW from renewable sources and reduce CO2 emissions.
Tunisia takes a significant stride forward in its ambitious energy transition with the official inauguration of the Tozeur solar photovoltaic plant. This 50-megawatt facility represents more than just a technological achievement; it embodies our nation's commitment to harnessing its abundant solar resources for a sustainable future.
Le projet de Tozeur, attribué dans le cadre du régime des concessions lancé en 2019 et validé en 2021, contribuera à réduire les importations de gaz naturel d’environ 13 millions de dollars par an, tout en générant près de 8 millions de dollars d’économies sur les coûts d’exploitation pour la Steg.
The Tozeur plant, a testament to our strategic vision, will significantly bolster our energy independence by covering a substantial portion of the region's electricity demands. Crucially, it will lessen our reliance on imported natural gas, a move that not only strengthens our economy but also aligns with our environmental goals by curbing CO2 emissions.
This project, realized through national efforts and international partnerships, underscores Tunisia's potential in renewable energy. As Minister Fatma Thabet Chiboub highlighted, solar and wind power are a "true treasure" waiting to be exploited. The successful implementation of the Tozeur plant, and the upcoming inauguration in Sidi Bouzid, signal an acceleration of our national energy program, demonstrating our capacity to deliver on large-scale renewable energy projects.
Le défi réside aujourd’hui dans l’augmentation de la part des énergies propres.
From our perspective at La Presse, this is a moment of national pride. It showcases Tunisia's ability to innovate and implement vital infrastructure that directly benefits our citizens and secures our energy future. This is not just about megawatts and panels; it's about building a cleaner, more self-sufficient Tunisia for generations to come.
La Tunisie dispose d’un potentiel considérable en ressources solaires et éoliennes, qu’elle a qualifié de “véritable trésor” à exploiter.
Originally published by La Presse in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.