Situation in Tunisia:
Tunisia has ideal conditions to become a leading player in the production of green hydrogen and its derived products. High solar radiation (up to 2600 kWh/year in the south) and a large potential for wind energy along the 1300 km long coastline provide a solid basis. Its geographical proximity to Europe and existing infrastructure make Tunisia a strategic partner for supplying European markets. Although hydrogen production is still in its infancy, there are pilot projects and increasing political support. For example, an official hydrogen strategy has already been adopted. The Bavarian-Tunisian innovation and technology hub, which will open in May 2023, lays the foundation for knowledge transfer and partnerships and is now being further developed in a sustainable manner.
Co-operations:
The central partners are the Tunisian Ministry of Energy (MIME), the National Technical University in Tunis (ENIT) and the Hydrogen Alliance of Bavaria. Other cooperation partners include universities, companies and the technical cooperation project "Green hydrogen for sustainable growth and a decarbonised economy in Tunisia". The project is co-financed by the Bavarian State Chancellery
Project objectives and measures:
The project aims to establish the Bavarian-Tunisian Hub for Green Hydrogen as a sustainable institution and to expand the knowledge exchange and partnerships from the first project phase.
- Institutionalisation of the Hub:
An organisational concept and business plan form the basis for equipping the Hub with the necessary resources and anchoring it sustainably. - Knowledge exchange and networking:
Study trips, lectures, dialogue forums and information events promote exchange between German and Tunisian stakeholders. Special attention is paid to the promotion and networking of women in the energy sector through targeted training measures. - Technical development:
Based on a feasibility study, the Hub will be equipped with a practical, hydrogen-based application. This complements existing laboratory equipment and enables students to gain practical experience with hydrogen technologies. - Qualification and needs analysis:
Further and advanced training measures will be developed based on a needs analysis for professions along the hydrogen value chain (plant construction, transport, desalination, etc.). Implementation is carried out in cooperation with companies from relevant sectors.
Expected impact:
The project strengthens Tunisia's capacities in the department of green hydrogen, promotes economic development and offers sustainable career prospects. The Hub will become a centre for knowledge transfer and innovation, contributing to Tunisia's international competitiveness in the long term and deepening the partnership with Bavaria.