- Tunisia is making significant strides in embracing renewable energy (RE) sources such as solar, wind, and biomass, aiming to diversify its energy mix.
- Attracting private investment is crucial for Tunisia, as private investors are significant in financing renewable energy initiatives across North Africa.
Tunisia is making significant strides in embracing renewable energy (RE) sources such as solar, wind, and biomass. The nation aims to diversify its energy mix and reduce its dependence on fossil fuels. The nation has set an ambitious goal of generating 35 per cent of its electricity from renewables by 2030.
This target reflects Tunisia’s commitment to a more sustainable and responsible use of energy resources. Improving energy efficiency across critical sectors like buildings, industry, and transport is a key part of this strategy.
The country targets a 30 per cent reduction in energy demand by 2030, underscoring its dedication to resource conservation. A pivotal moment in this journey was the establishment of the Energy Transition Fund in 2013, which has been instrumental in driving investment in renewable energy and energy efficiency projects.
Attracting private investment is crucial for Tunisia, as private investors are significant in financing renewable energy initiatives across North Africa. This focus is already paying off, with renewable energy production steadily increasing.
According to the latest report from the Ministry of Industry, renewable energy production reached 5.6 per cent of the country’s electricity output in June 2024, demonstrating steady growth. This momentum is particularly notable in the residential sector, where 254 megawatts of electricity were generated from renewable sources.
However, this increase in production comes alongside a rise in electricity consumption. Peak consumption hit 4,024 megawatts at the end of June, marking a 13 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2023.
Despite these positive developments, Tunisia faces challenges, particularly in its energy trade balance. According to the National Observatory for Energy and Mines, the energy trade deficit worsened by 26 per cent in January 2024, reaching 1,011 million dinars, even after accounting for Algeria’s gas royalties.
While the value of energy exports increased by 44 per cent to 279 MD, the cost of importing petroleum products also rose by 30 per cent, reaching 1,290 MD compared to the same period in 2023.
By mobilising public and private stakeholders, Tunisia is building a cleaner and more efficient energy model, positioning itself as a committed player in the global fight against climate change and promoting sustainable development. Tunisia has revised its renewable energy target, aiming to achieve 35 per cent of electricity generation from renewables by 2030, with 90 per cent of this coming from wind and solar photovoltaic power.