Connected via MT-HT

Self-generation is a major axis in Tunisian energy transition policy and contributes to the diversification of the energy mix. Self-generation is destined to play an important role in achieving the objectives of power generation from renewable energy sources.

Electricity self-generation is possible for any local authority and public or private establishment that is connected to the national electricity network at Medium or High Voltage (MT-HT). This is mainly relevant for organizations active in the industrial, agricultural or service sectors. Any such bodies may file a request with the Ministry of Energy, Mines and Energy Transition (Ministère de l’Énergie des Mines et de la Transition Énergétique) to install the equipment necessary for MT-HT self-generation.  This will need to be approved by an agreement with the Ministry.

The self-generation programme allows for the use of two options:

• On-site projects, without transmission of electricity through the grid;
• Projects on remote sites, with electricity transmission through the grid.

Projects without Transmission through the Grid

This type of project allows participating bodies to install their power generation unit directly on the premises of their activities. Since the power generated is consumed on site, such installations form a closed circuit, and transmission through the national grid is not required. Nevertheless, excess generation can usually be fed into the grid.

Excess power generation fed into the grid from the renewable generator, is recorded and invoiced monthly by STEG (Société Tunisienne de l'Électricité et du Gaz).  The contractual relations between the self-generator and STEG are defined in the contract, “For the transmission of electrical energy produced from renewable energy installations connected to the HT-MT network and purchase of the surplus by STEG.” This surplus purchase contract is valid for a period of 20 years, after which, it is automatically renewable for subsequent periods of 1 year, unless terminated by either one of the parties.

Projects with Transmission through the Grid

This type of project allows the self-generator to install her or his production unit on a remote site, far from that of his primary activity.

The transmission of electricity from the point of generation to the point of consumption must necessarily pass along the national grid. Any surpluses generated but not consumed by the project, are fed directly into the grid.

Such surpluses are invoiced monthly by STEG as the sum of the current fed into the network over each hourly segment, multiplied by the tariff for the corresponding segment.

The terms and conditions for pricing surpluses are similar to those for self-generation without transmission. However, in the case of a project with electricity transmission, the transmission of electricity from the place of generation to the place of consumption is also taken into account, and the generator is invoiced by STEG for the use of its network. Charges on this tariff however, will only apply to the amount of electricity consumed by the generator – not to any surplus.

Quantity of KWp agreed