Tensions Rise Between STEG and Tunisian Businesses
The president of the National Organization of Entrepreneurs (ONE), Yassine Gouiaa, announced on Saturday, July 25, that a complaint will be filed against the national electricity operator in Tunisia. The reason: the damages suffered by several businesses due to the recent load shedding campaign.
Over 30 Lawyers Mobilized
The National Organization of Entrepreneurs (ONE) had already announced the establishment of a legal cell to support affected businesses. Gouiaa outlined the scope of the initiative: more than 30 lawyers have volunteered to handle the case. Their mission is to assist in gathering evidence, building cases, and initiating procedures. Affected businesses will need to provide invoices, technical reports, and any documents that can help assess material damage and losses.
Clinics, Restaurants, and Cafes Among the Most Affected
Yassine Gouiaa cited several sectors that have been particularly affected, including private clinics, restaurants, and cafes. According to him, more than two-thirds of cafes have seen their activity disrupted. This finding is consistent with that of the National Chamber of Restaurant Owners, where one in two establishments, if not more, has suffered losses due to perishable goods, service interruptions, and canceled reservations during the heatwave.
Demands for a Crisis Management System
Beyond the judicial aspect, the National Organization of Entrepreneurs (ONE) is protesting the structural management of the issue. The organization points to a lack of long-term vision in managing the national electricity grid, which is unable to ensure a continuous supply. They are demanding four measures:
- Prioritize the supply of industrial areas
- Create a national crisis cell
- Establish a transparent mechanism for reporting damages
- Implement a compensation system for established losses
Implications for Businesses and Investors
This judicial mobilization is not just a one-time confrontation. It raises a broader question about the reliability of the electricity grid as a risk factor for investment. For project leaders evaluating the establishment or expansion of an activity in Tunisia, the multiplication of lawsuits against STEG and the pressure for a permanent compensation mechanism could, in the long run, clarify the sharing of responsibilities in case of network failure. This is a point that directly affects the calculation of operational risk, particularly for sectors with high energy dependence.
