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Tunisia invests $121 million in residential solar energy programmes
The Tunisian government has announced a renewed financing mechanism for its national residential solar initiatives, allocating TND 370 million (approximately $121.1 million) from Zitouna Bank for the 2024-2026 period.
Photo Credit: Image: Brahim Guedich, Unsplash
The Tunisian government has announced a renewed financing mechanism for its national residential solar initiatives, allocating TND 370 million (approximately $121.1 million) from Zitouna Bank for the 2024-2026 period.
This funding aims to support the Prosol Residential and Prosol Elec programmes, managed by the national utility Société Tunisienne d’Electricité et de Gaz (STEG).
The allocated funds will be utilised in the form of rebates distributed to Tunisian households via the Energy Transition Fund (FNME). Additionally, the financing agreement provides STEG with the capability to offer loans for the acquisition and installation of renewable energy equipment.
The National Agency for Energy Management (ANME) stated, “The financial mechanism implemented within the framework of the Prosol program is based on the removal of two main barriers at the end consumer level: the burden of the initial investment and the long payback time compared to other conventional technologies.”
The Prosol Elec programme, specifically designed to promote solar systems for self-consumption, offers a 30% rebate on project costs through the FNME, along with a complimentary inverter from STEG, and a five-year credit for an amount of up to TND 3,000 per kW. This initiative has reportedly resulted in the installation of approximately 300 MW of solar systems across 90,000 residential properties.
The initiative to support residential solar energy systems in Tunisia arises from a growing recognition of the need for sustainable energy solutions. The Prosol programmes serve as a strategic framework to encourage both households and businesses to adopt solar technologies. By offering financial rebates and support for equipment loans, the government aims to mitigate the financial barriers that often deter consumers from investing in renewable energy. Such initiatives align with global trends towards energy transition and sustainability, reinforcing Tunisia’s commitment to expanding its renewable energy capacity and reducing dependence on conventional energy sources.
The successful implementation of these solar programmes not only addresses financial constraints but also helps support Tunisia’s energy goals, contributing towards a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
