Voltalia Wins Major Solar Project in Tunisia
French renewable energy company Voltalia has secured a substantial solar project in southwest Tunisia, near Gafsa.
This 130-megawatt project leverages Voltalia's experience in the region, where they have been active for over five years. Once operational, the plant will generate enough electricity to power over 7,00,000 homes.
The project is backed by a 30-year power sales agreement with STEG, the operator of Tunisia's national electricity grid. This win aligns with Tunisia's ambitious goal of reaching 30% renewable energy production by 2030, a sharp increase from the current 2.2%.
With abundant sunshine (over 300 days a year!), solar power is a competitive alternative to traditional gas-fired plants that rely on imports. However, Tunisia faces climate change challenges due to its reliance on agriculture and potential flooding risks in urban areas.
Construction is set to begin in 2025, with an expected completion date of 2026. Voltalia's CEO, Sébastien Clerc, expressed his enthusiasm: "We are delighted to have won this project. Thanks to attractive climate conditions, supportive governmental policies and strong support from international financial institutions, Tunisia has a great renewable energy potential in the short and long term."
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Source: Voltalia
