Sonelgaz-International to launch 40 MW power plant in Chad after Niger success

Following the successful inauguration of the Gorou Banda power plant in Niamey, Niger, Sonelgaz-International is set to expand its footprint in Africa with the upcoming launch of a 40-megawatt electrical facility in N’Djamena, Chad. This strategic move underscores the Algerian energy giant’s commitment to strengthening regional energy infrastructure.

Next phase in Sonelgaz’s African expansion

During the official commissioning of the Niamey facility in early June, Algeria’s Energy and Renewable Energies Minister, Mourad Adjal, confirmed plans for the Chadian project. The groundbreaking ceremony for the N’Djamena plant is scheduled to take place in the coming days, marking another milestone in Sonelgaz-International’s international development strategy.

The minister also revealed that discussions are underway with several African nations, including Côte d’Ivoire and Mozambique, to replicate this model of energy cooperation. Sonelgaz-International’s approach emphasizes collaboration between Algerian public and private enterprises, fostering mutually beneficial partnerships across the continent.

The Chadian initiative follows a bilateral agreement signed between Algeria and Chad in May, outlining the framework for the N’Djamena power plant construction.

Niamey plant: a logistical triumph

The Gorou Banda facility was inaugurated by Algerian Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb, representing President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, alongside Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine. Speaking at the event, Sonelgaz-International CEO Yazid Djellouli hailed the project as an “industrial and logistical milestone”.

He explained that operations began in March, immediately after the Algeria-Niger agreements were finalized. The rapid deployment required an extensive logistical operation, described as a “major air bridge”, with over twenty flights operated by Air Algérie Cargo. A team of fifty engineers, technicians, and project managers was mobilized from March onwards to ensure timely completion.

Djellouli emphasized the urgency behind the project: “Under the directives of the Energy Minister and in line with presidential guidance, Sonelgaz-International expedited the transfer of all necessary equipment to meet the tight deadlines.”

Boosting regional energy capacity

The 40 MW plant in Niger is expected to increase the country’s national electricity output by approximately 20%, significantly enhancing the energy supply to the capital. Beyond power generation, Sonelgaz-International is conducting feasibility studies for the rehabilitation and reinforcement of Niger’s electrical grid, particularly along the Niamey-Agadez corridor, which could lead to additional contracts.

Djellouli pointed out that the company has previously completed large-scale projects totaling 8,000 MW and 4,000 MW with international partners, enabling it to establish Sonelgaz-International and export Algerian expertise abroad.

Collaboration and capacity building

Khalil Hedna, Director of Communication at Algeria’s Ministry of Energy and Renewable Energies, highlighted the international expansion as a key achievement for the group. He noted that Nigerien engineers have received specialized training in plant operation and maintenance, while discussions are ongoing to establish a spare parts distribution hub in the country.

Fati Abarchi, Director General of NIGELEC, praised the partnership with Sonelgaz-International as an “exceptional experience” and expressed confidence that this collaboration will continue to grow. She described the new plant as a historic achievement for Niger’s energy sector.