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

Just weeks after commissioning a landmark 40-megawatt power plant in Niamey, Sonelgaz-International is set to replicate its success in N’Djamena. The Algerian energy giant, through its international subsidiary, will soon break ground on a similar facility in Chad’s capital, marking another milestone in its strategic expansion across the continent.

During the inauguration ceremony of the Gorou Banda plant in Niger’s capital, held on June 3, Chad’s Minister of Energy and Renewable Energies, Mourad Adjal, confirmed that the first stone for the new 40 MW power station in N’Djamena will be laid within days. This project aligns with the energy cooperation agreement signed between Algeria and Chad in May, reinforcing bilateral ties in the electricity sector.

Sonelgaz-International’s African ambitions extend beyond Chad

The minister also revealed ongoing discussions with several African nations, including Côte d’Ivoire and Mozambique, which have expressed strong interest in Sonelgaz-International’s expertise. The subsidiary is positioning itself as a bridge between Algeria’s public and private sectors and African energy markets, facilitating joint ventures and technology transfers.

The Gorou Banda plant in Niamey, inaugurated by Algerian Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb on behalf of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, in the presence of Niger’s Prime Minister Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine, has already begun boosting the country’s electricity grid. According to Sonelgaz-International CEO Yazid Djellouli, the project was executed in record time, with equipment transported via a « massive airlift operation » involving over 20 flights operated by Air Algérie Cargo. More than 50 engineers, technicians, and project managers were deployed from late March.

Boosting regional energy supply and local capacity

Djellouli emphasized that the Gorou Banda facility will increase Niger’s national electricity production by approximately 20%, while also enhancing power supply to the capital. Beyond generation, Sonelgaz-International is conducting feasibility studies to rehabilitate and strengthen Niger’s aging transmission network, particularly along the Niamey-Agadez corridor. These efforts could pave the way for future contracts, leveraging the company’s prior experience in executing 8,000 MW and 4,000 MW projects with major international firms.

Khalil Hedna, Director of Communication at Algeria’s Ministry of Energy and Renewable Energies, highlighted the Gorou Banda plant as a key step in Sonelgaz-International’s international development strategy. He noted that Nigerien technicians have already received specialized training in plant operation and maintenance, while plans for a spare parts depot are under review to ensure long-term sustainability.

Fati Abarchi, Director-General of Niger’s national electricity utility NIGELEC, praised the partnership with Sonelgaz-International as an « exceptional experience » that will « enter the annals of Niger’s energy history ». The collaboration, she added, is expected to continue expanding in scope and impact.