Tunisia aims for sustainable energy transition, PM

TUNISIA – Prime Minister Kamel Madouri emphasized Tunisia’s commitment to reducing its energy deficit and transitioning to a sustainable energy model by diversifying energy sources and rationalizing consumption.

At the Mediterranean Decarbonization Forum (DecarboMED), Madouri highlighted the government’s focus on bolstering energy infrastructure to achieve energy independence and attract private investment, particularly in renewable energy sectors like green hydrogen.

Several projects are underway to decarbonize, targeting reduced fossil fuel reliance through energy mix diversification and maximizing energy efficiency.

Madouri explained that these efforts are key to enhancing Tunisia’s economic and business competitiveness in an increasingly eco-conscious global market.

Minister of Industry, Mines, and Energy, Fatma Thabet Chiboub, stated that the forum serves as an important platform to discover innovative environmental solutions, share effective strategies, and exchange best practices to ensure the transition to a green economy.

She stressed the importance of collaborative efforts in achieving Tunisia’s sustainability goals.

However, UTICA President Samir Majoul voiced concern over Tunisia’s widening energy deficit, citing the country’s continued dependence on fossil fuels.

He called for comprehensive support for the private sector to drive renewable energy investments, improve energy supply, and combat climate change.

Majoul also underscored the need for a global vision and national strategy to address Tunisia’s economic, social, and environmental challenges.

Tunisian energy roadmap

In response to these challenges, Tunisia’s Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Energy has introduced a national roadmap for hydrogen production, developed in partnership with the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ).

The roadmap envisions the production of 8.3 million tons of hydrogen annually by 2050, with 6 million tons designated for export to Europe via pipeline, and over 2 million tons reserved for domestic use, including fertilizer production.

Tunisia aims to achieve 5 GW of installed renewable energy capacity by 2030 and 100 GW by 2050. A key project, set to launch between 2025 and 2030 in Gabes, involves producing electrolytic hydrogen and ammonia through solar-powered electrolysis.

The pilot project is expected to yield 220 tons of hydrogen and 630 tons of ammonia annually.

This initiative seeks to reduce Tunisia’s reliance on imported ammonia and position the country as a potential hub for renewable maritime fuels like ammonia and methanol.

To facilitate investment, Tunisia is considering adopting de-risking policies and financial incentives similar to those in Egypt, including simplified project approval processes and tax exemptions.

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