Electricity in Tunisia in 2023

In 2023, Tunisia's electricity consumption is heavily reliant on fossil fuels, which account for more than 85% of the energy generation. Gas alone comprises almost all of this fossil energy consumption, highlighting a significant dependence on this non-renewable source. Moreover, Tunisia also relies on net imports for approximately 11% of its electricity needs. In contrast, low-carbon energy sources contribute a minimal share to the country’s electricity mix, with only about 3% coming from clean technologies. Among these low-carbon sources, wind energy slightly surpasses solar, contributing around 1.5%, while solar energy accounts for a little more than 1%.

Suggestions

To increase low-carbon electricity generation, Tunisia can draw lessons from countries that have successfully integrated more sustainable energy infrastructures. For instance, France and Slovakia demonstrate impressive examples by generating more than half of their electricity through nuclear energy, which is a consistent and powerful low-carbon source. Similarly, countries like Denmark and Uruguay have made significant advancements using wind energy, adding up to roughly 60% and 36% of their electricity generation, respectively. Tunisia, with its abundant sunshine, might look to countries like Cyprus and Jordan, where solar power contributes around 15% to 17% of their electricity mixes. By investing in nuclear, wind, and solar technologies, Tunisia could significantly boost its low-carbon electricity production.

History

Historically, Tunisia has made gradual but limited progress in increasing low-carbon electricity generation. Beginning in the mid-1980s, the country saw modest growth in hydroelectric power, with slight gains in 1985, 1987, and 1991. More significant developments occurred in the early 2000s with both hydroelectric and wind power, though these gains were still modest in scale. Notably, wind power experienced a small but notable increase around 2013. In recent years, solar power has gained a foothold starting in 2019 and continuing into 2021, although there were slight setbacks for both solar and wind in 2022. These trends suggest a growing awareness of and investment in clean energy, albeit at a slow pace, which highlights the potential for more robust expansion efforts.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources