The recent inauguration of the 40-megawatt (MW) Gorou Banda power plant in Niamey, Niger, marks a significant milestone for Sonelgaz-International’s strategic expansion across Africa. This pioneering energy infrastructure, developed by the Algerian company’s subsidiary, represents its inaugural international venture. Building on this momentum, a similar project is now poised for launch in N’Djamena, Chad.

During the Nigerien plant’s inauguration on Wednesday, June 3, in Niamey, Algeria’s Minister of Energy and Renewable Energies, Mourad Adjal, revealed plans for the imminent groundbreaking ceremony of another 40 MW power plant in N’Djamena. This new facility will also be executed by Sonelgaz-International as part of its growing presence on the African continent.

The Minister further indicated that Sonelgaz-International is actively preparing additional projects in various African nations. He highlighted increasing interest in the company’s expertise, particularly from Côte d’Ivoire and Mozambique. According to Adjal, the subsidiary is positioned to serve as a catalyst for integrating Algerian public and private enterprises into these diverse African energy initiatives.

The forthcoming Chadian project aligns with an energy accord signed between Algeria and Chad in May, specifically outlining the construction of a power plant in N’Djamena.

The Gorou Banda plant in Niamey was officially opened by Algerian Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb, representing President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, alongside Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine.

In a statement, Yazid Djellouli, CEO of Sonelgaz-International, detailed that the Nigerien project commenced promptly in March, immediately following the signing of agreements between Algeria and Niger. He lauded the plant’s completion as a “remarkable industrial and logistical achievement.”

“Under the directives of Minister of Energy and Renewable Energies, Mr. Mourad Adjal, and in adherence to the President’s guidance, Sonelgaz-International swiftly initiated the transfer of essential equipment for the project’s execution,” Djellouli affirmed.

He described the logistical effort for equipment delivery as a “veritable air bridge,” involving more than twenty rotations managed by Air Algérie Cargo. Approximately fifty dedicated executives, engineers, and technicians have been deployed to the site since late March, ensuring the project’s rapid progress.

“We successfully delivered this power plant in record time. This represents Sonelgaz-International’s debut abroad, with further achievements anticipated in Niger and other African countries,” Djellouli stated confidently.

According to the CEO, this new power plant is expected to boost Niger’s national electricity production by roughly 20%, significantly enhancing the energy supply for the capital city, Niamey.

Beyond power generation, Sonelgaz-International is also conducting feasibility studies for the rehabilitation and reinforcement of Niger’s electrical grid, specifically focusing on the critical Niamey-Agadez corridor. These studies could pave the way for future contracts.

“We are currently engaged in studies for grid rehabilitation and reinforcement, particularly along the Niamey-Agadez axis,” Djellouli elaborated, adding, “Our experience in developing 8,000 MW and 4,000 MW programs with major international firms provided the expertise to establish Sonelgaz-International and now export Algerian know-how.”

Khalil Hedna, Director of Communication for the Algerian Ministry of Energy and Renewable Energies, emphasized the Niamey plant’s pivotal role in expanding the group’s international operations. He also noted that Nigerien personnel have received specialized training for the plant’s operation and maintenance, with plans for a spare parts facility currently under consideration.

Fati Abarchi, Director General of NIGELEC, commended the collaborative efforts between the two nations, describing the partnership with Sonelgaz-International as an “exceptional experience” destined for continued success. She believes this power plant will be remembered as a historic achievement for Niger’s energy sector.