Tunisian Parliament to Examine Five Solar Power Plant Projects
The Tunisian Parliament is preparing to examine five draft laws for the construction of photovoltaic power plants in Sidi Bouzid, Gafsa, and Gabès, aiming to strengthen electricity production from renewable energy sources and reduce dependence on natural gas imports.
According to Mohamed Ali Fenira, rapporteur of the Industry, Trade, Natural Resources, Energy, and Environment Committee, the projects concern the "Khabna" and "Mzouna" plants in Sidi Bouzid, "Saqdoud" and "El Ksar" in the Gafsa governorate, as well as "Manzel El Habib" in Gabès. The examination of these projects is expected to begin in the coming days.
These initiatives are part of a broader objective: to support local electricity production, reduce production costs, and limit natural gas imports. A hearing with the Minister of Industry, Energy, and Mines is scheduled to discuss these projects, while the Minister of Trade will also be heard on Ramadan preparations.
However, Fenira emphasized that achieving a 35% renewable energy target by 2035 remains an ambitious goal. He proposed redirecting investments towards residential photovoltaic energy and simplifying the licensing system for 1-10 MW projects, while stressing the need to stimulate investment for the benefit of Tunisians.
As a reminder, the Secretary of State for Energy Transition, Wael Chouchen, had specified that the national energy strategy by 2035 is based on three integrated systems. It aims to ensure sustainable, reliable, and affordable access to energy, strengthen energy sovereignty, reduce vulnerability to global fluctuations, and create a favorable investment climate, while ensuring a just energy transition.
