Green hydrogen in Tunisia: Assessment of socio-environmental impacts and opportunities for a sustainable transition

Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung, North Africa office

With the objective of fostering sustainable development and energy transition in Tunisia, the Rosa Luxemburg Stiftung (RLS) is seeking to commission research that explores the potential socio-environmental impacts of green hydrogen.

1. Background

Tunisia’s strategic pursuit of green hydrogen development is presented as an imperative for diversifying its energy sources, meeting climate challenges and integrating into emerging markets. It received particular attention when Tunisia embarked on an ambitious green hydrogen strategy in partnership with Germany. The aim is to produce and export large quantities of green hydrogen to Europe, tapping into a fast-growing global market. While this initiative has potential economic benefits, it also raises crucial questions about its environmental and social impact.

Concerns have arisen due to the rapid development of the strategy without sufficient prior environmental and social impact assessments. The absence of in-depth studies and serious consultation with local communities and civil society organizations has raised questions about the sustainability of hydrogen production as a means of energy transition.

As Tunisia moves forward with its green hydrogen projects, it is essential to prioritize thorough environmental assessments, engage with stakeholders and address potential risks to ensure that this transition benefits both the country and its people.

1. General Objective

Undertake a comprehensive assessment of Tunisia’s green hydrogen production strategy, with a particular focus on the potential social and environmental impacts, and the adequacy of public consultation and engagement processes.

Result will be presented as a study with recommendations proposal to enhance the inclusivity and sustainability of these projects.

3. Content wise

• Critical analysis of government strategy :

– Identify the strategy’s shortcomings in terms of environmental and social assessment and integration of social issues.

– Assess the strategy’s consistency with Tunisia’s sustainable development objectives and international commitments.

– Assess consultation and participation processes at local level.

• Benchmarking:

– Study similar projects internationally to identify lessons learned and best practices.

– Study the environmental and social impacts of existing photovoltaic installations, wind farms and desalination plants in Tunisia.

• Assessment of potential impacts for an existing pilot project:

– Assess the consumption and management of resources requirements for green hydrogen production.

– Assess effects on terrestrial and marine biodiversity, including habitat fragmentation and pollution.

– Analyze social justice aspects by identifying communities most at risk and inequalities in the distribution of costs and benefits.

– Assess the capacity of local institutions to manage the impacts of these projects and ensure community participation.

• Recommendations:

– Propose improvements to the government strategy to strengthen environmental and social assessment and citizen participation.

– Formulate recommendations specific to the pilot project to mitigate negative impacts and enhance benefits for local communities.

4. Methodology

• Desk research – available papers, statistics and policies regarding the hydrogen production and energy transition in Tunisia and its evolution.
• Field research – Interviews with different actors such as, government representatives, scientists, NGO, and affected people on the ground (where appropriate).
• Data analysis – i.e. Collection and analysis of quantitative data (energy consumption, emissions, etc.) and qualitative data (interview transcripts).
• Policy recommendations

5. Target Groups

• Tunisian government
• Local communities and civil society associations
• International partners and investors
• Experts and researchers

6. Publishing date and scope of the final publication

• Scope: Maximum 60 pages including references and index
• Final Submission date of the study: 15^th of December 2024.

7. Proposal, Award and Tender submission deadline

Necessary qualification: Proven experience in research on the above described topic

The order will be issued as a service/or honorarium contract and the proposed researcher should submit the following documents:

• CV(s)/profile of the researcher(s)(1 lead researcher and research and field assistants)
• Time Frame with deliverable
• Price references/honorariums by working day (including taxes)
• Short proposal/ outline how the researcher is planning to conduct the research

The research task is designed for a maximum of 30 working days for the lead researcher.

The research task is designed for 15-20 working days for the “on field”-field research assistants (number of field research assistants will depend on the scope of the field research).

Tenders must be submitted no later than October 15^th, 2024.

Tenders submitted after this date will not be accepted.

Tenders must be submitted to Procurement.NorthAfrica@rosalux.org , with the subject line: Hydrogen impact Study – Tunisia.

*Incomplete applications will not be considered.

*Application of freelancer without patent will not be considered.

*Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

8. Languages

The study can be conducted in French, or Arabic or English. (Translations to other languages will be decided by RLS)

9. Publishers

Rosa-Luxemburg-Stiftung – North Africa Office