Renewable Energy Landmark: Scatec and Toyota Tsusho Unit Launch 60-MW Sidi Bouzid Solar Plant in Tunisia

Scatec and Aeolus launch the 60-MW Sidi Bouzid solar plant in Tunisia, marking the first project of a 500-MW solar tranche to reach commercial operations.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 11, 2026, 5:37 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Renewables Now

Inaugural Commercial Operations Under New Regime

The Sidi Bouzid solar power plant has officially reached its commercial operation date, representing a major milestone for Norwegian renewables developer Scatec ASA and its partner, Aeolus. This 60-MW facility is the first project developed by Scatec to go online in Tunisia, serving as a flagship for the country's competitively tendered renewable energy program. According to Scatec, the project was part of an initial 500-MW allocation of solar capacity launched under a strategic Concession Regime intended to diversify the national energy mix.

Long-Term Utility Partnership and Power Generation

The facility’s output is secured through a 30-year power purchase agreement with the Tunisian state utility, Societe Tunisienne de l'Electricite et du Gaz (STEG). This long-term contract ensures a stable supply of clean energy for the national grid, reinforcing the partnership between private developers and state infrastructure. By securing these terms, the Sidi Bouzid site provides a reliable blueprint for future utility-scale solar projects in the MENA region, where long-term off-take agreements are essential for securing international investment.

Joint Venture Structure and Asset Management

The development is the result of a coordinated partnership between Scatec and Aeolus, a subsidiary of the Toyota Tsusho Corporation. Scatec maintains a majority 51% ownership stake in the venture, while Aeolus holds the remaining 49%. Beyond the construction phase, Scatec is designated to handle all operations and maintenance as well as asset management services for the site. This integrated approach allows the Nordic firm to maintain oversight of the plant’s technical efficiency while leveraging the global reach of the Toyota Tsusho unit.