Tunisia is set to embark on green hydrogen production, but the domestically produced energy will not be used locally. Instead, it will be exported to countries such as Germany and those in Northern Europe. This information was revealed by Elyes Ben Ammar, a member of the General Federation of Electricity and Gas, affiliated with the Tunisian General Labor Union (UGTT). According to Ben Ammar, the projects will be located in the southern regions of Gabès and Tataouine.
The green hydrogen projects are expected to have a significant impact on Tunisia's water resources. Ben Ammar warned that the projects will require a substantial amount of water, equivalent to a quarter of the country's current water needs for drinking water by 2050. This is a pressing concern, given that Tunisia is already experiencing a severe water crisis, with the annual per capita water supply ranging from 350 to 380 cubic meters.
The green hydrogen projects will also require massive renewable energy infrastructure, with a capacity of approximately 100 gigawatts. This is nearly twenty times the country's current energy production. Ben Ammar expressed concerns that the projects may exacerbate social tensions, particularly in regions like Gabès, which has experienced significant social unrest due to the activities of the Tunisian Chemical Group.
The UGTT representative emphasized the need for a national dialogue to develop a model that benefits local populations. He argued that Tunisia should prioritize meeting its own energy needs before exporting green hydrogen. This sentiment is rooted in the country's experience with the chemical industry in Gabès, which has generated significant social and environmental problems.
According to Ben Ammar, the green hydrogen projects are expected to be implemented in the southern regions of the country. The projects will require significant investment and infrastructure development. While the exact details of the projects are not yet available, it is clear that they will have a substantial impact on Tunisia's energy landscape.
The export of green hydrogen to Europe is seen as a significant opportunity for Tunisia. The country's strategic location and natural resources make it an attractive partner for European countries seeking to reduce their carbon footprint. However, concerns about the impact on local communities and the environment need to be addressed.
The issue of green hydrogen production in Tunisia highlights the need for a balanced approach to energy development. While the export of green hydrogen can generate significant revenue, it is essential to ensure that local communities benefit from the projects and that the environment is protected. A national dialogue is necessary to develop a model that balances economic, social, and environmental considerations.
Key points
- Tunisia plans to export green hydrogen to Germany and Northern Europe, rather than using it domestically.
- The green hydrogen projects are expected to require significant amounts of water and renewable energy infrastructure.
- The implementation of the projects will require a national dialogue to ensure that local communities benefit and that the environment is protected.
