The Tunisian Engineers' Union has emphasized the need for urgent action to guarantee the sustainability of the country's electrical system and prevent a repeat of the power outages experienced during the 2026 summer. Union head, Mohsen Gharssi, stressed that energy security is an integral part of Tunisia's economic and social security. He made these remarks on the sidelines of a roundtable discussion to present a roadmap for Tunisia's energy sector from 2027 to 2035.

According to Gharssi, the union has prepared a technical vision and realistic solutions to mitigate over half of the problems and losses experienced by the country during the 2026 summer. These solutions rely on the current capabilities of national institutions. The union's proposals aim to address the challenges facing the electrical system and ensure a stable energy supply. Gharssi warned that every day without taking action or implementing the proposed solutions will have severe consequences for the electrical system during the next summer.

The union has officially submitted its study and proposed technical solutions to key stakeholders, including the Presidency of the Republic, the Prime Minister's office, the Ministry of Industry, the Parliament, and the Tunisian Electricity and Gas Company (STEG). This aims to initiate a broad national discussion on enhancing energy security and the sustainability of the electrical system. The proposals are currently under review by decision-makers.

Gharssi also addressed the issue of migration of engineers and skilled personnel from national institutions, including STEG. He noted that Tunisian expertise is managing and operating major energy facilities in several Arab and African countries. The union head called for prioritizing national engineering solutions and investing in Tunisian expertise, emphasizing that retaining local expertise is crucial for enhancing the country's ability to face energy sector challenges.

The Tunisian Engineers' Union's roadmap for the energy sector from 2027 to 2035 aims to ensure a stable and secure energy supply. The union's proposals focus on optimizing the electrical system, improving energy efficiency, and promoting the use of renewable energy sources. By implementing these solutions, Tunisia can reduce its reliance on imported energy and mitigate the impact of power outages on the economy and daily life.

Gharssi's remarks highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive approach to address Tunisia's energy challenges. The country's energy sector faces significant hurdles, including aging infrastructure, inefficient energy use, and limited investment in renewable energy. The union's roadmap offers a framework for addressing these challenges and ensuring a sustainable energy future for Tunisia.

The Tunisian government has expressed its commitment to addressing the country's energy challenges and promoting sustainable development. The Ministry of Industry has emphasized its efforts to enhance the country's energy security and reduce its reliance on imported energy. The government is expected to review the union's proposals and work towards implementing measures to ensure a stable energy supply for the 2027 summer.

Key points

  • - The Tunisian Engineers' Union has proposed a roadmap for Tunisia's energy sector from 2027 to 2035 to ensure energy security and prevent power outages. - The union's proposals focus on optimizing the electrical system, improving energy efficiency, and promoting the use of renewable energy sources. - The government has expressed its commitment to addressing the country's energy challenges and promoting sustainable development.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.