Tunisia's renewable energy sector has seen a significant surge in investments, with nearly 500 investors registering for projects in the past 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 licensing system has been successful in attracting private investors to the renewable energy sector. However, the implementation of these projects 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 today, will bring together over 60 companies, 10 start-ups, and foreign companies from Italy, Germany, and Libya. The event's program includes six scientific seminars on investment, financing, energy efficiency, and hydrogen. The salon aims to promote partnerships and investments in renewable energy projects.
The event is expected to contribute to the creation of new job opportunities and stimulate investments in renewable energy. Al-Kanzari emphasized that the main challenges facing the energy transition in Tunisia include accelerating the implementation of major projects, improving coordination with the electrical grid, and simplifying procedures.
Al-Kanzari also highlighted the need to provide incentives and financing for renewable energy projects. He proposed exempting photovoltaic panels, inverters, and batteries from customs duties and value-added tax. Additionally, he suggested accelerating the digitalization of administrative procedures and licenses.
The head of the National Chamber of Photovoltaic Energy also proposed reforming the self-production system for medium-voltage network subscribers. This includes abolishing the 30% cap and revising the electricity purchase tariff to 80 millimes per kilowatt-hour. Furthermore, Al-Kanzari suggested launching a national program called "Energy Citizenship" to equip one million low-income families with free photovoltaic systems over five years.
The "Energy Citizenship" program aims to develop a total capacity of 600 megawatts. The program is expected to contribute to the country's efforts to increase its renewable energy production and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. Tunisia's renewable energy sector is expected to continue growing, with a focus on solar and wind energy.
Key points
- Nearly 500 investors have registered for renewable energy projects in Tunisia in the past year.
- The country's renewable energy sector 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.
