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The Italian energy giant has officially launched the Terna Innovation Zone in Tunis—the first innovation hub managed by the group in Africa. This groundbreaking initiative marks a major step in strengthening the strategic partnership between Italy and Tunisia while advancing energy innovation and sustainability across the region.
Being part of an emerging ecosystem with immense growth potential, the Terna Innovation Zone will serve as a reference point for energy innovation and sustainability in North Africa. Linked to the Elmed project—the first direct current electrical interconnection between Europe and Africa—the initiative supports the construction of a 200 km submarine cable between Italy and Tunisia. This cutting-edge infrastructure, realized by Terna and STEG (Société Tunisienne de l'Électricité et du Gaz), will facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources, ensuring a stable, diversified, and sustainable energy supply while aligning with Europe’s decarbonization goals.
The purpose of the Terna Innovation Zone is to strengthen the innovation ecosystem and support entrepreneurship in Tunisia. Acting as a specialized training laboratory, it will contribute to the country’s progress in the energy sector. Open innovation and acceleration programs will provide Tunisian startups with access to Terna’s global partnership network, offering valuable resources, expertise, and opportunities across international innovation ecosystems. The first major initiative will kick off in February with a “call for startups,” followed by a dedicated scaling program for the most promising Tunisian ventures in the energy and digital transition sectors.
The official inauguration ceremony in Tunis was attended by key figures, including Giuseppina Di Foggia, CEO and General Manager of Terna; Faycel Tarifa, Chairman and General Manager of STEG; and Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, Italian Minister of Environment and Energy Security. Several distinguished authorities also graced the event, including H.E. Mohamed Ali Nafti, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Tunisia, Wael Chouchane, Secretary of State for Energy Transition, and Fabrizio Saggio, Coordinator for the implementation of the Mattei Plan.
As part of its broader vision, the Terna Innovation Zone will focus on training engineers and technicians in collaboration with local universities. This initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of skilled professionals equipped with the latest technical expertise and an innovation-driven mindset. By fostering knowledge sharing and capacity building, Terna seeks to enhance the efficiency of Tunisia’s energy system while embracing cutting-edge technology.
“This initiative is a testament to our commitment to a just and inclusive energy transition,” said Giuseppina Di Foggia, CEO and General Manager of Terna. “By supporting local enterprises, strengthening Tunisia’s innovation ecosystem, and creating opportunities for startups and professionals, we are building a sustainable energy future together. The Terna Innovation Zone is not just a physical space—it is a symbol of our mission to drive progress and technological advancement.”
This marks Terna’s second global Innovation Zone, following its successful hub in San Francisco, which focuses on scouting technological solutions, supporting Italian startups, and fostering strategic partnerships in the world’s leading innovation ecosystem.
News Source- https://www.terna.it/en/media/press-releases/detail/terna-inaugurates-new-innovation-zone-tunisia
