Breakfast Debate: Green Hydrogen Opportunities and Challenges in Tunisia
The Tunisian-Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce organized a breakfast debate on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, in Tunis, shedding light on the opportunities and challenges associated with the development of green hydrogen in Tunisia. The event brought together experts and decision-makers to discuss the national energy strategy, Tunisia's key role in the energy transition, and the impact of green hydrogen projects on trade with the European Union.
The Strategic Potential of Green Hydrogen for Tunisia
Kaïs Fekih, President of the Tunisian-Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce, highlighted the potential of green hydrogen for Tunisia due to its geographical proximity to the European Union, facilitating exports. He presented an ambitious plan to produce 8 million tons of green hydrogen by 2050, with 2 million tons for domestic consumption and 6 million tons for export. This energy transition is envisioned within a framework of environmental respect, prioritizing the use of wastewater and seawater desalination, avoiding negative environmental impacts. A comprehensive ecosystem is being developed, including educational initiatives in universities to train specialists in green hydrogen. This project aims to strengthen the capacities of the Tunisian private sector.
Hydrogen Production Solutions
Belhassen Chiboub, Director General of Electricity and Renewable Energies at the Ministry of Industry, Mines, and Energy, presented solutions proposed by Tunisia to address the hydrological challenges related to green hydrogen production. He responded to questions about the impact of green hydrogen on biodiversity and water resources, which are becoming increasingly scarce. According to him, Tunisia does not plan to use its natural water resources due to current water stress. He proposed two solutions: wastewater reuse and seawater desalination. Regarding desalination, Chiboub explained that although it may seem energy-intensive, it is relatively moderate in terms of energy consumption compared to green hydrogen production. He highlighted the importance of conducting environmental and social impact studies for each desalination project to respect international norms.
Regulatory and Land-Use Challenges for Green Hydrogen Development
Ramzi Jelalia, CEO of RNJ Advisory, shared a detailed analysis of the challenges associated with green hydrogen production in Tunisia. He emphasized that although the regulatory framework for renewable energies, such as solar and wind power, is well-established, there is a lack of specific regulations for green hydrogen. Currently, green hydrogen projects must comply with general laws, which are not tailored to this new industry. Jelalia mentioned that a project is underway to create a specific code for renewable energies and green hydrogen, but the absence of such a framework constitutes a weakness for the development of this sector in Tunisia.
Belgium's Engagement and Partnership Opportunities
François Dumont, Ambassador of Belgium to Tunisia, addressed the opportunities related to green hydrogen in Tunisia. He recalled Belgium's commitment within the European Union, with several memoranda of understanding signed in 2023 and 2024, including a specific memorandum on renewable energies in June 2024. These agreements aim to strengthen partnerships and promote green hydrogen, an area where Belgium has recognized expertise. Dumont emphasized that Belgium, through these MOUs, seeks to attract Belgian companies to invest in Tunisia's renewable energy and green hydrogen sectors. In 2023, several agreements were signed with Belgian companies, marking a first engagement with Tunisia.
