Tunisia: new solar plant reshapes future energy plans

Tunisia has taken a major step toward cleaner and more secure power after a large solar plant began its operations, a move praised by the African Development Bank (AfDB) as key to the country’s energy transition, according to an official statement from the AfDB on December 19th. 

The AfDB stated that the commissioning of the Kairouan solar power plant strengthens Tunisia’s efforts to reduce dependence on imported fuel and move toward renewable energy. The plant officially started operating on December 16, 2025, and is seen as a milestone for both energy security and regional development.

The AfDB helped finance the project with a $25 million contribution. The funding came from the Bank’s own resources and the Sustainable Energy Fund for Africa (SEFA). The support helped attract additional investment needed to complete the plant.

Malinne Blomberg, the AfDB’s Deputy Director General for North Africa and Country Manager for Tunisia, said, “We warmly congratulate the Tunisian government and AMEA Power on the commissioning of the Kairouan solar project, which represents a decisive milestone in Tunisia’s energy transition.” The project supports Tunisia’s national energy plan, which aims to ensure that 35% of installed power capacity comes from renewable sources by 2030.

“By supporting this transformational project, the Bank reaffirms its commitment to backing high-impact private investment capable of strengthening energy resilience, reducing carbon emissions, and creating lasting value for communities,” she added. 

According to an APA News report, The Bank said it remains committed to backing Independent Power Producer (IPP) programs across North Africa as part of its wider push for climate action, economic resilience and sustainable growth.

Built by AMEA Power in partnership with Tunisian authorities, the Kairouan facility is the first solar plant in the country to exceed 100 megawatts of installed capacity. Electricity from the plant is moved directly into Tunisia’s national high-voltage grid, helping support power supply across the country. 

According to the African Development Bank, the plant is expected to produce about 222 gigawatt-hours of electricity each year. This is enough to meet the needs of nearly 43,000 households. The Bank also said the project will bring down carbon emissions by around 117,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually, helping Tunisia lower its environmental footprint.

By generating power locally from the sun, Tunisia can reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuels. This, the Bank said, will make the country less exposed to swings in international energy markets and improve long-term energy stability.

African Development Bank, APA News, Maghrebi.org