Renewable Energy: The Authorization Regime Under Review
Source: La Presse – 18 Feb 2026
A Massive Energy Deficit Spurs an Ambitious Green Turn
Tunisia is confronting an energy deficit that is projected to exceed 11 billion Tunisian dinars in 2025. In response, the Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy has set a bold target: raise the share of renewable energy in the national energy mix from the current 6 % to 35 % by 2030, and further to 50 % by 2035.
To achieve these goals, the ministry plans 12 billion dinars of investments, while simultaneously simplifying procedures for investors. A key element of this simplification is the proposed “Golden Permit” – a single, universal authorisation designed to cut red‑tape and accelerate the rollout of solar and wind projects across the country.
Key Figures Presented at the National Renewable Energy Conference
- Current deficit (2025): > 11.1 bn TND
- Renewable share target: 6 % → 35 % (2030) → 50 % (2035)
- Investment needed: ≈ 12 bn TND
- Planned capacity: 5 000 MW from photovoltaic (PV) panels and wind turbines
These numbers were announced by Ouael Chouchène, State Secretary for Energy Transition, during the conference organised by the Federation of Citizen Enterprises of Tunisia (Conect) under the theme:
“Renewable Energy Projects under the Authorization Regime: Current Framework, Challenges and Perspectives for Improvement.”
Why the Shift Matters
- Economic pressure – Reducing an ever‑growing energy bill that drains public finances.
- Energy security – Lessening dependence on volatile international markets and geopolitical tensions.
- Environmental stewardship – Supplying households and businesses with clean, climate‑friendly power.
- Sustainable development – Preserving a livable environment for future generations.
Tunisia enjoys abundant solar irradiation nationwide and favourable wind conditions in several regions, providing a solid natural foundation for the transition.
From Aspirations to Realistic Targets
The objectives of cutting energy imports and lowering related expenditures are no longer wishful thinking; they are reachable if all stakeholders act in concert. Conect President Aslan Berjeb even hinted at a long‑term vision where Tunisia could become a net exporter of renewable energy and expertise.
Existing Investment Regimes
| Regime | Main Actors | Current Status |
|---|---|---|
| Self‑production | Companies & households | Progressing steadily |
| Concessions | Private investors granted long‑term rights | Progressing steadily |
| Authorisations | Projects requiring state permits | Facing bottlenecks, but strong public‑private will |
Authorisations to Date
- 187 authorisations have been granted, covering 287 MW of renewable capacity.
- Many of these projects remain unfinished due to:
- Lack of building permits from local municipalities.
- Difficulties converting agricultural land to industrial use.
These hurdles have slowed progress toward the 5 GW target and congested the medium‑voltage (MV) grid, whose capacity is already near its limit.
“We must clean up the grid to welcome new investors,” warns Néjib Chtourou, Deputy CEO of the Tunisian Electricity and Gas Company (STEG).
The “Golden Permit” Proposal
During the conference, participants discussed a “Golden Permit” – a single, all‑encompassing authorisation that would eliminate the need for multiple documents once issued.
- Pros: Faster project launch, reduced administrative costs, clearer investment climate.
- Cons: Requires a dedicated regulatory framework and coordination among several ministries and agencies.
Some deputies suggested that the upcoming investment code revision could be the right moment to embed this mechanism.
Government’s Interim Measures
While the “Golden Permit” debate continues, the Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy commits to:
- Continued support for investors through technical and financial assistance until projects reach commercial operation.
- Administrative improvements such as:
- Digitalisation of services.
- Creation of a single‑point‑of‑contact for all renewable‑energy enquiries.
- Infrastructure upgrades – expanding the grid and installing additional transformers to absorb the new renewable output.
All parties agree on forging mutually beneficial partnerships that enable both economic growth and environmental protection.
Further Reading
Read also: Renewable Energies – The Authorization Regime Under Review
Keywords: Tunisia renewable energy, energy deficit, Golden Permit, solar power, wind power, STeg, Conect, energy transition, investment regime, medium‑voltage grid.
