Facing a growing energy crisis, Tunisia is turning to innovative solutions, specifically exploring the potential of using bio-waste to address its energy needs. This article delves into how Tunisia is aiming to achieve energy independence by transforming its abundant bio-waste into a lasting energy source,offering a promising path toward a greener future.Learn how local entrepreneurs are leading the charge with groundbreaking initiatives.
Tunisia Explores Bio-Waste as Energy Solution Amidst Rising Import Dependence
The Energy Landscape in Tunisia: A Call for Innovation
Tunisia faces a significant energy challenge, wiht natural gas dominating consumption, accounting for 48% of total demand in 2022, surpassing even petroleum products. the nation’s electricity generation relies heavily on gas-powered thermal plants.However, domestic gas production is declining, leading to increased reliance on imports.
This dependence has surged dramatically, escalating from a mere 5% of consumption in 2010 to over 50% in 2024. In response to this growing energy deficit, Tunisian innovators are exploring sustainable alternatives. One such initiative is Methane Energy Production Solutions (MEPS), a startup focusing on a locally abundant yet frequently enough overlooked resource: bio-waste.
MEPS: Turning Waste into Prospect
Tunisia generates over 3 million tons of bio-waste annually,presenting a significant opportunity for renewable energy production.MEPS aims to capitalize on this “green gold” through intelligent, mobile, and connected biodigesters. This technology, championed by Khouloud Ayachi, seeks to make biogas accessible even to small farmers.
Ayachi’s personal background deeply informs her work:
Coming from a family of farmers and breeders, Khouloud Ayachi was directly confronted with the effects of the economic crisis wich weakens the rural sector in Tunisia.
Witnessing the struggles of her community, she recognized the urgent need for sustainable solutions. Her project empowers farmers to produce their own energy and obtain natural fertilizer, fostering both economic resilience and environmental stewardship.
Ambitious Goals and Strategic Partnerships
Ayachi’s vision extends beyond individual farms.Her ambition is bold:
Cover up to 10% of national natural gas needs by 2030, while creating thousands of green jobs.
Achieving this ambitious goal requires strategic alliances. Ayachi is actively seeking financial support and partnerships to scale her innovative solution and contribute significantly to Tunisia’s energy independence.
Central African Republic grapples with Sugar Shortage
While Tunisia seeks energy independence,the central African Republic (CAR) faces a different challenge: a growing scarcity of sugar,a staple commodity. The crisis stems from the cessation of operations at the Central African sugar Factory (SUCAF),a subsidiary of the Castel Group. With SUCAF’s closure, the CAR now relies entirely on sugar imports, placing a strain on household purchasing power and exacerbating the trade deficit.
The goverment is actively working to address this crisis by revitalizing local sugar production through public-private partnerships. The aim is to reduce dependence on imports and stabilize the sugar supply for its citizens.
