Tunisia risks summer power cuts as projects lag
National electricity demand grows 5% annually, requiring 300 MW more power next year.
Tunisia may not finish projects intended to prevent electricity outages by summer 2027, warned Ali Kenzari, president of the national union for photovoltaic equipment installers and maintainers. National electricity demand is increasing by 5% each year, requiring an additional 300 megawatts of capacity next year. Kenzari stated that the timeline for announced projects does not guarantee their completion before summer 2027, risking delays in boosting production capacity.
Kenzari anticipates an electricity deficit that could reach 2,800 MW next year, following a gap of 2,000 to 2,500 MW during last year's peak consumption. He noted that government plans to improve existing power plants, which involve new tenders, might not be implemented until 2028. The government announced measures in early November to increase production before summer 2027, including 300 MW from renewables and 200 MW from gas engines.
As an immediate solution, Kenzari suggested Tunisia increase electricity imports from Algeria, recalling that the current 800 MW exchange agreement was insufficient last year. He also highlighted the potential of solar photovoltaic energy, stating that installed capacity should reach at least 2,500 MW to strengthen national production and reduce reliance on conventional sources.
Why it mattersTunisia faces a potential electricity deficit of 2,800 MW next year, impacting national supply and requiring increased imports.