Terna has inaugurated its first Innovation Zone in Africa, located in Tunis, as part of a corporate social responsibility project aimed at fostering technological innovation and strengthening the partnership between Italy and Tunisia. This initiative will promote the development of the Tunisian energy sector, focusing on sustainability and digital transition.
The Terna Innovation Zone will serve as a specialized training laboratory and innovation hub, supporting Tunisian startups, developing local talent, and enhancing the country’s energy sector. Through open innovation programs, startups will have access to resources, knowledge, and international opportunities provided by Terna’s global partnership network. The first initiative will launch a “call for startups” in February, followed by a scaling program for the most promising companies.
In line with a just and inclusive energy transition, the zone will also focus on training engineers and technicians, partnering with local universities to provide technical skills and promote a culture of innovation. This will help build a new generation of professionals capable of managing energy infrastructures and adopting innovative technologies to enhance Tunisia’s energy system.
The initiative is tied to the Elmed project, a direct current electrical interconnection between Europe and Africa, involving a 200 km submarine cable between Italy and Tunisia. This infrastructure, led by Terna and STEG (Société Tunisienne de l’Électricité et du Gaz), will foster greater energy integration between the two continents and contribute to renewable energy goals, security, and sustainability.
Giuseppina Di Foggia, CEO of Terna, emphasized that the Innovation Zone is more than just a physical space, but a symbol of Italy and Tunisia’s commitment to sustainable energy, technological progress, and international cooperation. This initiative aligns with the goals of the Mattei Plan and the broader vision of a digitally and energy-sustainable Mediterranean region.
The Terna Innovation Zone in Tunisia represents a key step in supporting North Africa’s energy innovation ecosystem and advancing sustainable energy solutions through international partnerships.
