On September 23, 2026, Tunisia's Minister of Energy Transition, Wail Chouchane, inaugurated the 2nd African Energy Forum in Tunis. The event, themed "Leadership and Cooperation for a Secure and Sustainable Future," brought together experts and professionals from the energy sector. The forum aims to discuss the future of energy in Africa and explore opportunities for cooperation and investment. Minister Chouchane emphasized the importance of energy in achieving economic sovereignty and industrial competitiveness.
The forum featured a session with Olivier Houzé, former president of the Society of Petroleum Engineers (SPE), Nafaa El Bekri, Director General of the National Energy Control Agency, and other notable attendees. Minister Chouchane highlighted that energy decisions made today will determine the future of economic systems and their ability to meet growing energy demands. He stressed that fossil fuels still play a significant role in achieving energy balance, alongside the potential of renewable energies to diversify supply sources and improve the competitiveness of electricity production.
Minister Chouchane emphasized the importance of energy efficiency in reducing energy consumption and improving the performance of industrial institutions. He also highlighted the role of modern technologies, such as digitalization, artificial intelligence, and smart grids, in developing energy infrastructure. Tunisia has started to adopt a gradual approach to transforming its energy system, focusing on developing renewable energies and controlling demand through energy efficiency and supporting industrial competitiveness.
Tunisia has implemented several investment programs in renewable energies in recent years, with several solar power plants already operational. The country continues to develop new projects, relying on public and private investments. Minister Chouchane stressed the importance of self-production of electricity from renewable energies, enabling economic institutions to better control energy costs and enhance their competitiveness in international markets.
The minister highlighted the significance of international and regional partnerships in supporting the energy transition, including financing infrastructure, transferring technology, and developing skills. He cited the example of cooperation between Tunisia and Algeria, as well as the dynamic partnership with Italy and the European Union, particularly through the ELMED project, which aims to connect the electrical grids of Tunisia and Italy.
The African Energy Forum is organized by the Tunisian Energy Professionals Association (TENS) in partnership with the Tunisian Petroleum Activities Company (ETAP) and the National Energy Control Agency (ANME). The event brings together various stakeholders from the energy, hydrocarbons, renewable energies, and energy efficiency sectors to exchange experiences and explore cooperation and investment opportunities.
The forum provides a platform for experts and professionals to discuss the latest developments and trends in the energy sector. Minister Chouchane emphasized that Tunisia's geographical location and historical relationships with regional and international partners make it an ideal hub for energy cooperation and investment. The event aims to promote a secure and sustainable energy future for Africa.
Key points
- Tunisia hosts the 2nd African Energy Forum to discuss leadership and cooperation in the energy sector.
- The forum focuses on renewable energies, energy efficiency, and modern technologies to achieve a secure and sustainable energy future.
- Tunisia aims to develop its renewable energy sector and improve energy efficiency to enhance its competitiveness in international markets.
