Sonelgaz-International to launch 40 MW power plant in N’Djamena after Niger success

Following the commissioning of the Gorou Banda power plant in Niamey, Sonelgaz-International is set to expand its operations in Africa with a new 40-megawatt electrical facility in N’Djamena, Chad. This initiative marks a significant milestone in the Algerian energy group’s international expansion strategy.

The Gorou Banda precedent in Niger

The recently inaugurated Gorou Banda plant in Niger demonstrates Sonelgaz-International’s capability to deliver large-scale energy projects abroad. Completed in record time after signing agreements with Nigerien authorities, the plant has already begun contributing to the country’s electricity supply, boosting Niamey’s energy capacity by approximately 20%.

N’Djamena’s upcoming power plant

In parallel with the Nigerien inauguration, Chad’s Minister of Energy and Renewable Energies announced the imminent groundbreaking for a 40 MW facility in the Chadian capital. This project, also entrusted to Sonelgaz-International, follows an agreement signed between Algeria and Chad in May to enhance the country’s energy infrastructure.

The Chadian initiative reflects growing interest in Sonelgaz-International’s expertise, with potential projects also under consideration in Côte d’Ivoire and Mozambique. The Algerian company is positioning itself as a key player in Africa’s energy transition by offering comprehensive solutions that combine public-private partnerships and technology transfer.

Operational challenges and achievements

The Nigerien project required meticulous logistical coordination, including over 20 cargo flights operated by Air Algérie Cargo to transport equipment and a team of 50 engineers and technicians. Sonelgaz-International’s CEO, Yazid Djellouli, described the operation as a “remarkable industrial and logistical feat” achieved in a compressed timeframe.

Beyond power generation, Sonelgaz-International is conducting feasibility studies for rehabilitating and strengthening Niger’s electricity grid, particularly along the Niamey-Agadez corridor. These efforts could lead to future contracts, reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainable energy development in the region.

Capacity building and local partnerships

Training programs for Nigerien technicians and the establishment of a spare parts depot are among the initiatives supporting local energy infrastructure. The collaboration between Sonelgaz-International and Niger’s national utility company, NIGELEC, was praised as an “exceptional experience” that will continue to evolve.

The Chadian project, aligned with the Algeria-Chad accord, is expected to follow a similar model of rapid deployment and knowledge sharing. Sonelgaz-International’s approach combines technical excellence with strategic partnerships to address Africa’s pressing energy needs.

Future outlook for Sonelgaz-International

The Algerian energy group has leveraged its 12,000 MW portfolio, developed with major international firms, to establish Sonelgaz-International as an exporter of Algerian expertise. With multiple African nations expressing interest, the company is poised to play a pivotal role in the continent’s energy landscape through scalable, replicable projects.