Tunisie Numérique interviewed Nidhal Ouerfelli, Director of Strategic Partnerships at the French Alternative Energies and Atomic Energy Commission (CEA France) and an international expert in energy transition, on the sidelines of his participation in a panel discussion devoted to “new investment opportunities.” The panel was held as part of the 39th edition of the Enterprise Days, organized by the IACE from 11 to 13 December 2025 in Sousse.
This event provided an opportunity to present ideas for structuring projects aimed at capitalizing on new global economic balances, while highlighting investment opportunities, whether through new projects, expansions, or initiatives with a strong technological component.
Asked about Tunisia’s ability to achieve a 30% share of renewable energies in the electricity mix by 2030, Nidhal Ouerfelli said that this target, while important, remains insufficient to meet all the country’s energy needs and the challenges associated with economic growth. “We need to be more ambitious when it comes to diversifying energy sources,” he stressed, calling for an in-depth reflection on the option of civilian nuclear power for electricity generation.
According to him, the pursuit of greater energy independence requires openness to all clean energy sources capable of sustainably meeting national needs. “Civilian nuclear energy can represent a relevant solution, particularly in supporting the development of the industrial sector,” Nidhal Ouerfelli explained.
Referring to the ELMED project, the expert noted that it represents a central pillar of the country’s strategic development and will enable Tunisia to position itself as a genuine energy hub. “Today, Europe is engaged in a rapid transition, driven by the constraints of decarbonization, security of supply, and the relocation of its value chains. The ELMED project will make Tunisia a supplier of green, low-carbon energy to Europe. The country should not limit itself to the role of a simple transit corridor, but rather become a fully-fledged energy hub,” he said.
Addressing the issue of carbon taxation, Nidhal Ouerfelli recalled that Tunisia is expected to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, a major challenge for the future of relations between the Maghreb and the European Union. “It is necessary to open a dialogue with the European Union and the European Commission in order to assess the advantages and disadvantages of introducing such a tax on trade with the 27 EU member states,” he argued, calling for collective negotiations on behalf of all North African countries.
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