Tunisia's renewable energy sector has seen a significant surge in investment following a reform of the licensing system, with nearly 500 investors showing interest in less than a year. According to Ali Al-Kanzari, head of the National Chamber of Photovoltaic Energy, the fifth and sixth rounds of evaluating requests for producing electricity from photovoltaic solar energy under the licensing system resulted in the approval of projects for nearly 500 investors. These projects have a total capacity of approximately 750 megawatts.
The reform of the licensing system has been successful in attracting private investors to the renewable energy sector. However, the implementation of these projects still faces several challenges, including connection to the electrical grid and administrative procedures. Additionally, there is a need for more reliable data on energy efficiency. Al-Kanzari made these statements on the eve of the fourth edition of the International Salon for Energy Transition.
The International Salon for Energy Transition, which begins on Thursday, will bring together over 60 companies, 10 start-ups, and foreign companies from Italy, Germany, and Libya. The event will feature six scientific workshops on investment, financing, energy efficiency, storage, and hydrogen. The goal is to promote partnerships and investments in renewable energy projects, such as solar and wind power, and the development of smart grids.
The event aims to contribute to the creation of new job opportunities and stimulate investment in the renewable energy sector. According to Al-Kanzari, the salon will provide a platform for discussions and partnerships between official delegations, experts, and stakeholders in the renewable energy sector. The event is expected to boost investment and partnerships in projects producing electricity from solar and wind energy.
Al-Kanzari highlighted several challenges facing the energy transition in Tunisia, including accelerating the implementation of major projects, improving coordination on grid connections, and simplifying procedures. He also emphasized the need for financing, tax incentives, and reducing bureaucracy. The head of the National Chamber of Photovoltaic Energy called for the complete exemption of photovoltaic panels, inverters, and batteries from customs duties and value-added tax.
To promote the development of renewable energy, Al-Kanzari proposed several measures, including reforming the self-production system for medium-voltage network subscribers and launching a national program called "Energy Citizenship." The program aims to equip one million low-income families with free photovoltaic systems over five years, with an expected installed capacity of 600 megawatts.
The renewable energy sector in Tunisia has shown significant growth, with a rising interest from the private sector in investing in electricity production from renewable sources. The government's efforts to reform the licensing system and promote investment in the sector are expected to contribute to the country's energy transition and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.
Key points
- Nearly 500 investors have shown interest in Tunisia's renewable energy sector following a reform of the licensing system.
- The implementation of renewable energy projects in Tunisia still faces challenges, including connection to the electrical grid and administrative procedures.
- The International Salon for Energy Transition aims to promote partnerships and investments in renewable energy projects in Tunisia.
