Tunisian Deputies Emphasize Environmental Considerations in Renewable Energy Projects

Deputies from the Investment and International Cooperation Commission of the National Council of Regions and Districts (CNRD) stressed on Wednesday the need to prioritize environmental considerations in renewable energy development projects.

Speaking during a hearing session with Environment Minister Habib Abid, focused on the examination of five recently approved photovoltaic power plant projects by the Agency for the Regulation of Electricity and Gas (ARP), the deputies emphasized the importance of adopting an integrated approach that balances economic development requirements with environmental preservation.

Background

The ARP adopted five draft laws in late April, related to concession agreements for solar electricity production. These projects concern power plants in El Khobna (Sidi Bouzid), Mezzouna (Sidi Bouzid), El Ksar (Gafsa), Segdoud (Gafsa), and Menzel Habib in the Gabès governorate.

Deputies' Concerns

While acknowledging the contribution of these power plants to the country's energy transition and deficit reduction, the deputies called for a thorough examination of all aspects related to these investments to ensure the protection of current and future generations' rights. They highlighted the need to establish mechanisms for control, sustainability guarantees, and infrastructure monitoring to ensure compliance with environmental standards.

Minister's Response

Reacting to the deputies' interventions, the Environment Minister recalled that these projects are part of a broader vision aiming to reduce primary energy consumption in Tunisia by 50% by 2035. This strategy involves improving energy efficiency, promoting the use of energy-efficient equipment, and supporting electric mobility. In the long term, Tunisia aims to achieve massive electricity production from renewable energy sources by 2050.

The minister also stated that investments in new solar power plants aim to contribute to stabilizing financial and energy balances by reducing the cost of electricity production compared to conventional energy sources based on imported gas and oil. He noted that a single power plant can supply approximately 40,000 families with electricity, reflecting the economic and social impact of these projects.