Electricity in Tunisia in 2023

As of 2023, Tunisia's electricity consumption primarily relies on fossil fuels, with more than 85% of its electricity generated from these sources, almost entirely from gas. Low-carbon energy, which includes wind and solar power, contributes a modest 3% to the electricity mix. Additionally, Tunisia imports nearly 11% of its electricity. This heavy reliance on fossil fuels has significant implications for climate change and air quality. In detail, wind power generates about 1.5% and solar energy another 1.4% of Tunisia's electricity, indicating that the country has a considerable opportunity to expand its clean energy footprint.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Tunisia could take valuable lessons from countries that have successfully adopted green energy solutions. For instance, France and Slovakia generate more than half of their electricity from nuclear power. Tunisia could consider developing a nuclear program to emulate these successes. Denmark and Germany serve as exemplary cases in wind power usage, with each producing around 30% or more of their electricity from wind. Furthermore, Greece and Chile have made significant strides through solar power, generating over 20% of their electricity from this source. By adopting similar strategies—investing in both nuclear energy and bolstering wind and solar capacity—Tunisia can significantly improve its low-carbon electricity generation.

History

Tunisia's journey towards low-carbon electricity dates back several decades, with small but noteworthy steps in hydropower starting in the mid-1980s. Incremental gains in hydropower were seen sporadically in 1985, 1987, 1991, and 2003, each marking a modest increase of 0.1 TWh. However, 2006 saw a slight decline in hydroelectricity production. Wind energy began making its mark in 2009 and continued with small increments in the early 2010s, though it experienced a minor setback in 2015. Solar energy installations began showing results in 2019, with steady growth until 2022, which slightly dipped in both solar and wind electricity generation. These historical efforts, though limited, can provide a foundation upon which Tunisia can build its future low-carbon ambitions.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources