Algeria’s state-owned energy company, Sonelgaz, is set to build a 40 MW power plant in Niger following an agreement signed in January 2025 with the Nigerien Electricity Company (NIGELEC).
This initiative aims to bolster Niger’s energy sector, which faces challenges in diversifying its power sources. While the project’s total cost has not been disclosed, Algeria will fully finance its construction.
This collaboration is part of a broader energy cooperation framework between the two nations. Sonelgaz CEO Mourad Adjal highlighted that the initiative aligns with Algeria’s commitment to supporting Niger’s energy infrastructure development. According to the World Bank, only 19.5% of Niger’s population had access to electricity in 2022, underscoring the urgent need for energy solutions.
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Energy sustainability
Beyond the power plant, the agreement includes technical support for electricity transmission and distribution improvements. Additionally, it encompasses training programs, particularly in renewable energy, to enhance local expertise and promote long-term energy sustainability.
This project comes at a crucial time as Niger seeks to expand its electricity supply to accommodate a growing population and rising energy demand. It is part of a series of bilateral efforts, including the development of a petrochemical complex in Dosso and cooperation on the Kafra oil project. Monitoring the implementation of the power plant will be essential to evaluate its impact on Niger’s energy landscape.
Despite these efforts, Niger’s energy sector still faces considerable hurdles, particularly in rural areas where access to electricity remains limited. The 40 MW plant is a vital step forward but only a partial solution to the country’s broader supply challenges.
Algeria and Niger’s energy collaboration extends beyond this project, with joint ventures such as the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP) and the Kafra oil initiative. These partnerships highlight the strategic importance of energy cooperation in the Sahel region, where improved infrastructure plays a key role in fostering economic growth.
