Tunisia will develop a 130-megawatt photovoltaic solar power plant in the Gabès region with financial support from Japan under its Joint Crediting Mechanism (JCM), local media reported. The project is part of Tunisia’s broader strategy to expand renewable energy generation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions while meeting rising electricity demand.
The initiative was selected in February 2026 to receive funding through Japan’s carbon financing program, which promotes low-carbon projects overseas by sharing the resulting greenhouse gas emission reductions between Japan and the host country. Under the scheme, Japan will provide a grant of up to 2 billion yen, equivalent to approximately 37 million Tunisian dinars ($13.5 million), to cover a portion of construction costs.
The project will be executed by the Société Tunisienne de l’Électricité et du Gaz (STEG), Tunisia’s state-owned electricity and gas company. Japanese engineering and trading company Marubeni Corporation will lead construction, working in partnership with an unnamed French firm. While a commissioning date has not yet been announced, officials expect the plant to contribute significantly to the country’s renewable energy capacity once operational.
The solar plant aligns with Tunisia’s national objective of raising the share of renewables in its electricity mix to 35% by 2030. According to International Energy Agency data from 2023, renewable sources currently account for only about 3.8% of Tunisia’s electricity production, with natural gas dominating the energy landscape. Expanding solar capacity is therefore seen as critical for diversifying energy sources and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Beyond energy diversification, the project is expected to generate environmental benefits by lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Under the JCM framework, emission reductions achieved through the plant will be jointly recognized by Tunisia and Japan, reinforcing bilateral collaboration on climate action. The scheme is designed to incentivize the deployment of clean energy technologies while promoting sustainable development in host countries.
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Officials in Tunisia view the project as part of a broader strategy to attract foreign investment and technical expertise in the energy sector. By partnering with experienced international firms, the government aims to accelerate the adoption of advanced solar technologies and strengthen domestic capacity for renewable energy deployment. The project also demonstrates the potential of public-private partnerships in mobilizing resources for large-scale infrastructure projects.
The Gabès plant is planned as a 130-megawatt facility, capable of generating a substantial volume of low-carbon electricity. While specific details on grid integration and transmission infrastructure have not been disclosed, authorities emphasize that the project will complement existing electricity networks and enhance energy security in southern Tunisia.
Energy experts note that Tunisia’s commitment to solar power reflects a growing recognition of the economic and environmental benefits of renewable energy. Solar projects can help stabilize electricity supply, reduce fuel import costs, and contribute to climate change mitigation. With international support, Tunisia seeks to scale up similar projects across the country to meet growing electricity demand and climate commitments.
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The project also underscores the strategic role of international cooperation in supporting Tunisia’s energy transition. Japan’s involvement through the JCM provides both financial assistance and technical guidance, helping the country adopt globally recognized standards in project planning, construction, and emissions accounting.
As Tunisia moves forward with the Gabès solar plant, the government aims to leverage the project as a model for future renewable energy investments. The combined focus on clean energy generation, international collaboration, and sustainable infrastructure development is expected to strengthen Tunisia’s position as a regional leader in renewable energy while contributing to global climate goals.
In summary, the 130-MW Gabès solar plant represents a key milestone in Tunisia’s renewable energy agenda. Funded under Japan’s JCM, the project highlights the potential of international partnerships to support low-carbon development, reduce emissions, and expand the country’s electricity capacity. By combining financial support, technical expertise, and strategic planning, Tunisia is taking concrete steps toward a more sustainable and resilient energy future.
