The successful commissioning of the Gorou Banda power plant in Niamey, Niger, represents a pivotal moment for Sonelgaz-International. This 40-megawatt facility is the first major energy infrastructure completed by the Algerian company outside its borders. Building on this momentum, a similar 40-megawatt project is now slated for construction in N’Djamena, Chad.
Strategic deployment across the African continent
In the wake of the Nigerien inauguration, Minister of Energy and Renewable Energies, Mourad Adjal, confirmed that the foundation stone for the Chadian power plant will be laid in the coming days. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to export Algerian technical expertise throughout Africa. Beyond Chad, there is significant interest from nations like Côte d’Ivoire and Mozambique in partnering with Sonelgaz-International. This expansion serves as a catalyst for involving both public and private Algerian enterprises in diverse projects across the continent.
The upcoming project in Chad follows a formal cooperation agreement signed between Algeria and Chad last May, specifically targeting the energy needs of N’Djamena.
A logistical and industrial milestone in Niger
The Gorou Banda plant was officially inaugurated by Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb, representing President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, alongside Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine. Yazid Djellouli, CEO of Sonelgaz-International, described the project as a major industrial achievement, noting that work began in March shortly after bilateral agreements were finalized.
The rapid completion of the facility was made possible by an intensive logistical operation. Equipment was transported via an “air bridge” involving over twenty flights by Air Algérie Cargo. A dedicated team of fifty engineers and technicians worked on-site to meet the aggressive timeline. This new plant is expected to increase Niger’s national electricity output by approximately 20%, significantly stabilizing the power supply for the capital city.
Future cooperation and technical training
The partnership extends beyond mere construction. Sonelgaz-International is currently conducting feasibility studies to rehabilitate and strengthen the Nigerien electrical grid, particularly the corridor between Niamey and Agadez. These efforts could lead to further long-term contracts. The company is leveraging its extensive experience in managing large-scale programs to position Algerian know-how as a premium export.
Furthermore, the collaboration includes a strong focus on knowledge transfer. Local Nigerien technicians and managers have received specialized training in the operation and maintenance of the new facilities. Fati Abarchi, Director General of NIGELEC, praised the partnership, noting that the new power plant marks a historic turning point for the energy sector in Niger. Plans are also under consideration to establish a local spare parts hub to ensure the long-term sustainability of the infrastructure.
