Tunisian Businesses Brace for Continued Power Crises, Shifting Investment Priorities

Tunisian companies are no longer counting on a swift return to normalcy. Following the electricity blackouts of summer 2026, executives surveyed by the Arab Institute of Business Leaders (IACE) anticipate further grid tensions in 2027. Every respondent who provided input in the survey expects a recurrence of these difficulties. This outlook is prompting businesses to revise their plans and allocate more resources to securing their electricity supply.

A Surge in Demand for Backup Solutions

Prior to the summer of 2026, 56% of the surveyed companies did not possess any backup equipment, whether generators, batteries, or photovoltaic installations. Today, nearly three-quarters of respondents are considering equipping themselves within the next 12 months. For 18% of them, the investment has already been decided. The remaining 56% are still evaluating possible solutions.

This race for energy autonomy is no longer just a matter of precaution. For these businesses, it is about preserving business continuity in the face of a risk they now consider permanent. However, this protection comes at a price.

The Opportunity Cost of Energy Security

According to the IACE survey, 51.9% of companies report that they must postpone productive investments to finance their backup equipment. Furthermore, funds allocated to generators, batteries, or solar power cannot be directed toward other projects.

Key initiatives that may be delayed include:

• Modernization of equipment
• Digitalization efforts
• Expansion of production capacities

While businesses are striving to avoid operational interruptions, some must temporarily forgo investments in their own growth to achieve this stability.

Unequal Impact on the Economic Landscape

The financial burden of securing energy supply is likely to weigh unequally on the economic fabric. The ability to finance a backup solution depends on each company’s consumption profile, technical needs, and financial situation.

• Large Industrial Units: Generally possess greater resources to install appropriate equipment and absorb the associated costs.
• Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs): May find the expenditure a difficult burden to bear.

A Double Risk: Short-Term Survival vs. Long-Term Growth

The survey highlights a dual risk for the Tunisian business sector:

1. Short Term: Companies must mobilize resources to maintain production in the event of new disruptions.
2. Long Term: These forced expenditures may slow down investments, limit expansion capabilities, and negatively impact competitiveness.

Conclusion: A Precautionary Outlook for Summer 2027

As summer 2027 approaches, the IACE figures paint a concerning picture. Business leaders are no longer merely preparing for potential blackouts; they are now integrating electrical grid tensions directly into their investment decision-making processes. While securing the power supply has become a top priority, it is sometimes coming at the expense of long-term growth.