By Abdullahi Lukman
Tunisia has launched its first competitive tender for battery energy storage systems as part of efforts to modernise its electricity grid and support the expansion of renewable energy.
The initiative, announced by the Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy, aims to deploy large-scale battery facilities that will store electricity generated from renewable sources such as solar and wind, helping to balance supply and demand in the national power system.
Government officials say the project is designed to reduce the country’s reliance on imported natural gas while protecting the economy from volatile fossil fuel prices.
Battery storage technology allows surplus electricity generated during periods of high renewable output—such as daytime solar production—to be stored and released later when demand rises, particularly during evening hours.
This process helps stabilise the power grid and reduces the risk of electricity shortages.
Under the tender process, Tunisia is inviting experienced international developers and investors to bid for the project.
Selected companies will be responsible for designing, financing, constructing and operating the battery storage facilities, which will be connected to the country’s high-voltage transmission network.
The initiative forms part of Tunisia’s long-term energy strategy to increase the share of renewable power in its electricity mix to 35 percent by the end of the decade.
Energy officials say battery storage will play a key role in overcoming technical challenges linked to the intermittent nature of solar and wind power.
Beyond improving energy security, the project is also expected to create technical jobs and help build local expertise in advanced energy technologies, positioning Tunisia as a growing hub for energy storage development in North Africa.
