Strategic Focus on Waste Reduction and Energy Recovery
On March 25, 2025, the Tunisian Environment Minister met WTEI and its partners. A high-level meeting occurred at the Ministry of Environment in Tunis, marking an important milestone in Tunisia’s National Waste Management strategy. The session followed the Ministerial Council’s recommendations and the official creation of a follow-up Committee to implement the operational waste reduction and recovery plan.
The meeting brought together key officials from the Tunisian government and the Consortium led by Waste to Energy International (WTEI). The Consortium presented its proposal for sustainable and innovative waste-to-energy projects in the country.
WTEI Presents Global Expertise and Local Commitment
WTEI introduced its international experience in developing waste-to-energy facilities in Ethiopia, Egypt, Russia, and the United Kingdom. The company also emphasized its strong local partnerships, including with Tunisian engineering consultancy SERI Engineering, project sponsor Black Hawk, and NPS, the largest Russian EPC construction holding with vast experience in similar projects.
The presentation highlighted various waste-to-energy technologies, focusing on incineration with electricity generation and strict compliance with European environmental standards.
Business Model Tailored for Tunisia
WTEI proposed a comprehensive business model for which the company will provide the full funding. The model requires three key agreements:
- A 25-year Concession Agreement to ensure a stable waste supply.
- A 25-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) for selling electricity (up to 40 MWh for the Greater Tunis area) at a fixed price.
- A land lease agreement for the plant placement.
The Consortium and the Committee discussed projects planned for Greater Tunis and Sfax.
Positive Government Response and Key Discussion Points
The Minister of Environment welcomed the initiative and emphasized its alignment with Tunisia’s environmental and economic goals. He requested that WTEI adapt the proposal to local technical and regulatory specifics and prepare a detailed roadmap.
The Committee and Consortium discussed several key technical points:
- Water usage: approx. 200 m³ per day
- Maintenance: up to 15 days/year
- Energy yield: 0.8–1 MWh per dry ton (with 20% humidity)
- Land requirements: 4–7 hectares
- Residual ash: 5–15% of input waste
Participants also explored the use of treated wastewater, the energy potential of Tunisian waste, and the potential for ash treatment and reuse.
Institutional Coordination and Next Steps
The representative of the PPP Authority stressed the importance of competitive bidding for all unsolicited proposals. He recommended conducting preliminary feasibility studies and organizing an open call to select the most qualified partner.
The Chief of Cabinet confirmed Tunisia’s orientation toward waste valorization and proposed involving STEG (Tunisian Electricity and Gas Company) in the process.
Moving Forward
In conclusion, the committee expressed strong interest in WTEI’s proposal and requested the company to:
- Provide detailed technical and financial documentation
- Conduct additional feasibility studies
- Organize site visits to Grand Tunis and Sfax
Now, when the Tunisian Environment Minister met WTEI, the project received a green light and strong momentum to the realization. The Committee will organize a follow-up meeting shortly to continue the dialogue and progress the project.
