Energy Outlook Report: Tunisia Sees Notable Decline in Primary Energy Resources
According to the "Energy Outlook" report published by the National Observatory of Energy and Mines under the Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Energy, the December 2024 data paints a picture marked by a significant decline in primary energy resources.
Primary energy resources stood at 3.7 Mtep at the end of 2024, recording a 16% decrease compared to the previous year. This decline is mainly attributed to a decrease in national crude oil and natural gas production. These two resources still dominate Tunisia's energy structure, representing 70% of all primary energy resources.
The contribution of renewable energy remains limited, accounting for only 2% of primary energy resources in 2024, including production from the Tunisian Electricity and Gas Company (STEG), private producers, and self-generation. This small share highlights the challenges Tunisia faces in diversifying its energy sources and reducing its dependence on fossil fuels.
The revenue from the transit of Algerian gas also decreased by 9% in 2024, a direct consequence of limited gas purchases. To compensate for this situation and meet national electricity demand, STEG had to turn to electricity imports.
In terms of demand, it remained relatively stable between 2023 and 2024. However, a contrasting evolution is observed: natural gas demand decreased by 3%, while demand for petroleum products increased by 3%, increasing their share in the energy demand structure from 48% in 2023 to 50% in 2024. Natural gas, on the other hand, saw its share decrease from 51% to 49%.
In terms of electricity production, STEG maintains a dominant position with 96% of national production in 2024. However, electricity production from natural gas recorded a 3% decrease, while the share of renewable energy in electricity production stood at only 5%.