In the sun-drenched landscapes of North Africa, a new energy revolution is on the horizon, and Tunisia is poised to take center stage. A groundbreaking study, led by Maria Cristina Pinto of the TEBE-IEEM Research Group at the Energy Department of Politecnico di Torino, has mapped out the country’s potential to become a global leader in green hydrogen production. The research, published in Energy, Sustainability and Society, combines advanced spatial analysis and expert insights to paint a vivid picture of Tunisia’s hydrogen future.
Green hydrogen, produced through water electrolysis powered by renewable energy, is emerging as a key player in the global energy transition. As the world races towards decarbonization, the techno-economic, social, environmental, and geopolitical aspects of green hydrogen production are under intense scrutiny. Pinto’s study tackles these complexities head-on, using a Multi-criteria Spatial Decision Support System to assess Tunisia’s suitability for solar-based hydrogen production and trade.
The study employs a combination of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and Geographical Information System (GIS) to evaluate ten different criteria, from solar irradiation and water availability to social acceptance and geopolitical stability. “We wanted to go beyond the usual techno-economic parameters,” Pinto explains. “Including social and geopolitical criteria provides a more holistic view of Tunisia’s potential as a hydrogen hub.”
The results are promising. The suitability map reveals that the majority of Tunisia’s areas are moderately or highly suitable for green hydrogen production. Even when the criteria are extremized in a sensitivity analysis, no areas are assessed as very low suitable. This robustness suggests that Tunisia could indeed become a competitive hydrogen exporting leader, with significant implications for the global energy market.
The study’s innovative approach could reshape how we evaluate green hydrogen potential worldwide. By incorporating a wide range of criteria and expert preferences, it offers a more nuanced understanding of a country’s suitability. This could influence investment decisions, policy-making, and infrastructure development in the energy sector.
Moreover, the methodology is not limited to Tunisia. It can be applied across the entire North African region and tailored to other specific technological pathways. This adaptability could accelerate the energy transition, supporting the adoption of new clean technologies and driving us closer to the carbon-neutrality target.
As the world watches, Tunisia stands at the precipice of an energy revolution. With its abundant solar resources and strategic location, the country could become a major player in the global hydrogen market. And with studies like Pinto’s guiding the way, the future of green hydrogen looks brighter than ever. The energy sector is on the cusp of a significant shift, and Tunisia, with its unique advantages and strategic planning, could be at the forefront of this transformation. The implications for investment, job creation, and energy security are immense, making this an exciting time for stakeholders in the energy industry.
