Sonelgaz-International expands African energy footprint with new 40 MW plant in Chad

Building on the successful inauguration of a 40-megawatt power plant in Niamey, Niger, Sonelgaz-International is preparing to launch a similar facility in N’Djamena, Chad. This strategic move underscores the Algerian energy group’s growing presence across the African continent.

Niger’s Gorou Banda plant sets the stage

The newly inaugurated Gorou Banda plant in Niamey marks Sonelgaz-International’s maiden overseas project. Inaugurated on June 3 in the presence of Algerian Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb, representing President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, and Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine, the facility represents a milestone in cross-border energy cooperation.

Yazid Djellouli, CEO of Sonelgaz-International, described the project as a « remarkable industrial and logistical achievement », achieved through a « true air bridge » operation. More than twenty cargo flights operated by Air Algérie Cargo transported equipment, while a team of fifty engineers and technicians worked around the clock since March to complete the plant in record time.

The project, launched days after the Algeria-Niger energy agreement was signed, has boosted Niger’s national electricity production by approximately 20%, significantly strengthening the capital’s energy supply.

Chad’s N’Djamena plant follows closely behind

During the Niamey inauguration, Chad’s Minister of Energy and Renewable Energies, Mourad Adjal, announced the imminent groundbreaking for a 40-megawatt power plant in N’Djamena. This project, also to be executed by Sonelgaz-International, aligns with the Algeria-Chad energy cooperation agreement signed in May.

The minister highlighted growing interest from other African nations, including Côte d’Ivoire and Mozambique, in Sonelgaz-International’s expertise. He emphasized the subsidiary’s role as a catalyst for public-private partnerships, integrating Algerian companies into African energy projects.

Beyond power generation: strengthening regional energy networks

Sonelgaz-International is not only focused on new power plants. The group is conducting feasibility studies for rehabilitating and modernizing Niger’s aging electricity grid, particularly along the Niamey-Agadez corridor. These studies could pave the way for future contracts, building on Sonelgaz’s proven track record in large-scale energy infrastructure.

« We have successfully delivered programs totaling 8,000 MW and 4,000 MW with major international firms, » said Djellouli. « This expertise enabled us to establish Sonelgaz-International and now export Algerian know-how across Africa. »

Fostering local skills and sustainable energy partnerships

Local capacity building is a key component of the project. Nigerien technicians have received specialized training in plant operation and maintenance, while discussions are underway to establish a spare parts depot to ensure long-term sustainability.

Fati Abarchi, Director General of NIGELEC, praised the Algeria-Niger partnership as an « exceptional experience », noting that the Gorou Banda plant will « enter the annals of Niger’s energy history ». The collaboration is expected to continue expanding.

Khalil Hedna, Director of Communication at Algeria’s Ministry of Energy and Renewable Energies, emphasized that the Niamey plant represents a significant step in the group’s international development. He also highlighted that Algerian and Nigerien teams are exploring additional joint initiatives to further strengthen energy security in the region.