Fonds de Transition Énergétique
Fonds National de Maîtrise de l’Energie (FNME : 2005-2013)
Following the publication of Law No. 2004-72 concerning energy efficiency, Tunisia established the “fonds national de maîtrise de l’énergie” (FNME) in 2005. This fund is the cornerstone of the country’s national energy efficiency policy. Indeed, the fund is an essential tool for developing energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, given its role in correcting the effects of energy product subsidies, its impact on project profitability, and its psychological influence on consumer behavior. The interventions and resources of this fund were established by Law No. 2005-82 of August 15, 2005.
During the period 2006-2013, the FNME’s revenue reached approximately 204 million Tunisian dinars, while expenditures amounted to around 140 million dinars. Regarding the distribution of FNME expenditures during the same period, 12% was allocated to energy efficiency, 43% to energy substitution, and 45% to renewable energies (Prosol-elec and Prosol thermal programs).
Fonds de transition énergétique (FTE : since 2014)
Since 2014, the National Energy Efficiency Fund (FNME) has undergone a transformation into the Energy Transition Fund (FTE). This transition was accompanied by a significant increase in the fund’s resources, made possible by the implementation of new taxes on energy products as outlined in Article 68 of Law No. 2013-54. Moreover, the FTE has expanded its intervention methods to include a broader range of financial instruments. These include the provision of loans, as well as support for energy efficiency projects through repayable grants or equity investments. The specific details of these new interventions are outlined in Decree No. 2017-983.
The FTE’s new intervention mechanisms became operational following the publication of a detailed procedural manual as stipulated in Article 25 of Government Decree No. 2017-983. This manual, which was finalized in March 2020 and subsequently approved by ministerial order on September 30, 2020, provides a comprehensive framework for the implementation of the FTE’s expanded mandate.