Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Development in Kairouan
As part of the environmental footprint and energy survival program, the municipality of Kairouan has recently completed the installation of 850 energy-efficient public lighting points along 25 km of roads and alleys, generating an annual savings of approximately 110,000 dinars for the commune, while reducing energy consumption by 418 MWh per year.
Tunisia's Energy Transition
This project is part of Tunisia's larger energy transition dynamic. Since 2013, Tunisian authorities have implemented a national policy aimed at reducing primary energy consumption and promoting renewable energy, as part of their climate commitments. The Kairouan program also relies on the institutional framework of the National Energy Management Agency (ANME) and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), in partnership with the Global Environment Facility (GEF), as part of the National Sustainable Cities Program.
Key Initiatives for a Sustainable Future
Initiatives such as energy efficiency, LED lighting, and renovation of public buildings are among the preferred levers used by Tunisia to achieve its goals of reducing energy intensity and developing clean energy by 2030.
Capacity Building and Awareness
It is worth noting that this project has enabled, as of November 2025, the training of over 100 people, including lighting agents, municipal officials, civil society actors, as well as journalists and communicators - an approach aimed at strengthening awareness of the transition to sustainable energy.
Waste Management and Urban Sustainability
Furthermore, in 2025, waste management operations have been strengthened: approximately 200,000 m³ of construction waste have been collected nationwide, including 25,000 m³ in the Kairouan governorate. This aspect is part of a more sustainable urban management approach.
Expansion and Generalization of the Program
Currently, coordination is being extended to 16 governorates to generalize the program, including a "sustainable schools network" component.
Why is this important?
The switch to LED public lighting contributes to reducing electricity consumption and therefore energy costs for communities. In a country like Tunisia, which is heavily dependent on fossil fuels for electricity production, every kilowatt saved counts.
