Algeria powers Chad with new 40 MW solar plant in strategic energy push
Chad and Algeria have broken ground on a landmark 40-megawatt solar power plant in N’Djamena, fully funded and executed by Algeria’s Sonelgaz International. The facility is set to significantly boost Chad’s strained power grid while deepening economic and energy ties between the two nations—just weeks after a similar project was unveiled in Niger.
- Politics
The launch ceremony in Chad’s capital brought together Prime Ministers Allah-Maye Halina of Chad and Sifi Ghrieb of Algeria, marking the start of construction for what Algerian officials are calling the “Chad-Algeria Solidarity Power Plant.” Sonelgaz International, the Algerian state-owned energy conglomerate, will oversee the project, addressing Chad’s persistent energy shortages where demand far outstrips supply.
Sifi Ghrieb arrived in N’Djamena at the head of a high-powered delegation, including ministers, senior officials, and executives from Algeria’s energy, hydrocarbons, and infrastructure sectors. The group included Mohamed Arkab, Algeria’s Minister of Hydrocarbons, Mourad Adjal, Minister of Energy and Renewable Energies, and representatives from major public enterprises. In a joint statement, Algerian authorities framed the initiative as a deliberate act of cooperation initiated by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune to strengthen bilateral relations between Algiers and N’Djamena.
During the ceremony, Sifi Ghrieb emphasized Algeria’s commitment to tangible cooperation: “This plant embodies Algeria’s belief that effective African collaboration, grounded in concrete projects, can drive shared development with a direct impact on people’s lives.” He underscored the importance of “active solidarity, productive investment, and wealth-creating partnerships serving the people.” Energy cooperation has become a cornerstone of Algeria’s economic engagement across the Sahel, following the recent inauguration of an identical 40 MW plant in Niger by Sonelgaz International on June 3.
Beyond energy, discussions between the two delegations explored broader continental initiatives, including the Trans-Saharan Highway, fiber-optic networks, and improved air and logistics links to boost regional trade. On security matters, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to enhanced diplomatic coordination on Sahelian and African issues, prioritizing African-led solutions and respect for national sovereignty.
Since establishing its International Cooperation Agency for Solidarity and Development in 2020—with a reported budget of over one billion dollars—Algeria has accelerated its investments in infrastructure, energy projects, and economic initiatives across multiple African countries.
