Secretariat for the implementation of the Tunisian-German Energy Partnership

ContextTunisia is heavily dependent on fossil fuels. However, by 2030 it aims to meet one third of its electricity needs using renewable energies.ObjectiveTunisia and Germany have intensified their strategic and technical collaboration in the energy sector, while promoting the further integration of the private sector. A well balanced political partnership has been established, which is bringing long-term improvements to the economic, legal and technical regulation of the Tunisian energy market.ApproachThe Memorandum of Understanding on an energy partnership between Tunisia and Germany, signed in early 2012, provides a solid foundation for intensive cooperation between the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy (BMWi) and the Tunisian Ministry of Industry. This cooperation includes organisational, logistical, technical and strategic support in various fields, such as energy supply security, the use of renewable energies, improving energy efficiency, reducing energy consumption, sustainable development and climate protection.The agenda is set by a steering committee that determines the topical focus of the Energy Partnership, and identifies its areas of responsibility and sources of funding. Two working groups, one on renewable energy and one for electricity grids, ensure continuous exchanges between the parties. A permanent secretariat has been established in Tunis to strengthen the dialogue and provide organisational and technical support to the steering committee and working groups. The secretariat is the interface between the partner ministries, steering committee and working groups, and also works with representatives of the private sector and civil society, and with German institutions. Furthermore, the secretariat organises Energy Partnership events, such as business trips and the annual German-Tunisian Energy Day.ResultsPolitical and technical discussions have been held with the involvement of the private sector to improve the economic, legal and technical environment for Tunisia’s energy market.High-level Tunisian delegations have visited Germany.The German-Tunisian Energy Day has become an established event.Concrete steps have been taken towards integrating renewables into the power grids.

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