Tunisian Startup Transforms Olive Waste into Clean Energy

In northern Tunisia, Yassine Khelifi’s workshop processes olive waste into a valuable energy source, addressing the country’s heavy reliance on imported fuel, Asharq al-Awsat reported. Khelifi, an engineer from a farming background, founded Bioheat in 2022 to convert olive residue from oil extraction into energy, aiming to reduce firewood usage amid deforestation and climate change.

With Tunisia projected to be the third-largest olive oil producer by 2024-2025, the waste generated is significant. Khelifi developed a machine that produces briquettes with only eight-percent moisture, significantly lowering carbon emissions compared to traditional firewood. Bioheat’s briquettes have gained popularity among local restaurants and guesthouses, with 60% of production earmarked for export to France and Canada.

Experts emphasize that repurposing olive waste could create jobs and reduce Tunisia’s dependence on imported fuel, which currently exceeds 60% of its energy needs. Despite facing funding challenges, Khelifi aims to play a crucial role in Tunisia’s transition to clean energy.