Japan Backs 130 MW Solar Project In Tunisia To Boost Clean Energy Transition

Japan’s Ministry of the Environment has announced financial support for a new solar power project in Tunisia, marking another step in international cooperation on clean energy. The project involves building a 130 MW photovoltaic power plant in the Gabès region, located in the southeastern part of the country.

The project is being developed jointly by Marubeni Corporation and Voltalia. To support the initiative, the Japanese government will provide a grant of up to 2 billion yen, which is around $13.5 million. The funding is being delivered through the Joint Credit Mechanism, a bilateral system that promotes the use of low-carbon technologies in developing countries.

Under this mechanism, Japan provides financial assistance and advanced technology, while also receiving carbon credits in return. These credits help Japan meet its climate targets under the Paris Agreement. This approach supports both environmental goals and international collaboration.

The electricity generated from the Gabès solar plant will be sold to Tunisian Company of Electricity and Gas, the country’s national utility provider. The plant has been designed to be “battery-ready,” which means it can be easily connected to energy storage systems in the future. This will help ensure a stable and reliable power supply even during periods when solar generation is low.

Currently, renewable energy contributes only about 3.8% to Tunisia’s total electricity production. However, the government has set a target to increase this share to 35% by 2030. Projects like the Gabès solar plant are expected to play an important role in achieving this goal.

The project will use high-efficiency bifacial solar modules, which can generate electricity from sunlight on both sides of the panel. This technology helps improve overall energy output and efficiency, making the project more effective.

This is the fourth solar project in Tunisia to receive support through Japan’s Joint Credit Mechanism. Earlier projects have been developed in regions such as Sidi Bouzid and Tozeur. These initiatives highlight the growing partnership between Japan and Tunisia in the renewable energy sector.

Overall, the Gabès solar project is expected to increase clean energy capacity, reduce carbon emissions, and support Tunisia’s long-term energy transition. It also shows how international partnerships can help accelerate the shift toward sustainable and low-carbon energy systems.