Electricity in Tunisia in 2024
In 2024, Tunisia's electricity consumption heavily leans on fossil fuels, accounting for almost 86% of the total, with gas being the predominant source at approximately 85%. Only a small fraction of energy, about 4%, comes from low-carbon sources, with solar and wind contributing around 2% and 1.4%, respectively. Net imports make up almost 11% of electricity consumption, indicating a reliance on external sources. This heavy dependence on fossil fuels not only accentuates vulnerabilities related to external supply fluctuations but also significantly contributes to environmental issues such as greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution.
Suggestions
To bolster its low-carbon electricity generation, Tunisia can look at countries like Lebanon and Morocco, which have made substantial strides in their respective solar and wind productions. Lebanon generates about 31% of its electricity from solar energy, which serves as an inspiring model for solar expansion in Tunisia. Similarly, Morocco harnesses its wind resources to produce nearly 21% of its electricity sustainably. Tunisia can prioritize investments in wind and solar infrastructure, leveraging its abundant sunshine and coastal winds. Additionally, exploring nuclear energy as a long-term strategy could be advantageous, as exemplified by the significant share of nuclear power in countries like France, which derives nearly 68% of its electricity from this clean source.
History
The history of low-carbon electricity in Tunisia shows a modest pace of development. In the mid-1980s and early 2000s, hydroelectric generation steadily contributed small yet positive increments, with slight inconsistencies noted in 2006 when there was a minor decline. During the 2010s, wind energy emerged as a new player in the low-carbon mix, seeing a gradual climb until minor setbacks occurred in 2015 and again in 2022. Solar energy had a slight drop in 2019, but it has since shown a promising upward trend, especially evident in 2023. To accelerate the growth of low-carbon electricity, Tunisia should commit to comprehensive energy strategies that include sustained investments in solar and wind technologies alongside exploring the potential of nuclear power.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.