Tunisia has made significant progress in increasing its renewable energy share, with Secretary of State for Energy Transition Wael Chouchane announcing that it has reached 9% of the country's electricity mix. This represents a substantial increase from two years ago, when renewable energy accounted for around 4% of the mix. Chouchane made the announcement at the fourth edition of the International Energy Transition Salon, held at the Tunisian Industry, Commerce and Handicraft Union (UTICA).
Chouchane emphasized the importance of energy transition and the need to accelerate the implementation of programs and projects to strengthen the country's energy security. He noted that the global energy sector is undergoing significant changes, including geopolitical developments, market fluctuations, and supply chain pressures, making energy security a top priority. The Secretary of State stressed that energy is a matter of sovereignty and economic security.
The increase in renewable energy share is a significant achievement for Tunisia, but Chouchane acknowledged that more needs to be done. He noted that the country's energy system faced significant challenges during the last summer season, highlighting the need for rapid progress. To address these challenges, Chouchane emphasized the need to accelerate efforts at all levels, including the development of new renewable energy projects, improvement of the electrical grid, and promotion of energy efficiency.
Tunisia has several large-scale renewable energy projects in various stages of preparation and implementation. These projects include the development of solar and wind power, as well as initiatives to promote autoproduction and improve the electrical grid. Chouchane stressed that these projects are crucial to achieving the country's energy transition goals and that their implementation requires the participation of various stakeholders, including the private sector, financial institutions, and investors.
The development of a more flexible electrical grid and the provision of storage capacities are also essential to support the growth of renewable energy in Tunisia. Chouchane noted that the country's energy transition requires a comprehensive approach, including the development of smart systems for energy management and forecasting. He emphasized that the goal is not only to increase electricity production but also to build a more robust and flexible energy system.
Chouchane called for the participation of various stakeholders in the energy transition process, including the private sector, financial institutions, and investors. He stressed that the acceleration of energy transition is a collective responsibility that requires the efforts of all parties involved. The Secretary of State's remarks highlight the importance of a collaborative approach to achieving Tunisia's energy transition goals.
The growth of renewable energy in Tunisia is expected to continue, with plans to target one million families with solar panels over the next five years. The country's energy transition efforts are also supported by initiatives such as the Chams program, which aims to facilitate the adoption of solar energy by small and medium-sized enterprises. These efforts are crucial to achieving Tunisia's goal of increasing its renewable energy share and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.
Key points
- Tunisia's renewable energy share has reached 9% of its electricity mix, up from 4% two years ago.
- The country aims to accelerate its energy transition efforts, including the development of new renewable energy projects and improvement of the electrical grid.
- The growth of renewable energy in Tunisia requires a comprehensive approach, including the development of smart systems for energy management and forecasting.
