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

Following the successful inauguration of its Gorou Banda power plant in Niamey, Sonelgaz-International is set to launch a similar 40-megawatt facility in the Chadian capital, N’Djamena. This strategic move underscores the Algerian energy giant’s growing influence across the African continent.

N’Djamena project follows Niamey milestone

During the June 3 inauguration of the Gorou Banda plant in Niger, Algeria’s Minister of Energy and Renewable Energies, Mourad Adjal, confirmed that groundbreaking for the Chadian project would take place within days. The announcement reinforces Algeria’s commitment to strengthening energy partnerships across West Africa.

The minister emphasized that Sonelgaz-International is actively pursuing additional projects in countries like Côte d’Ivoire and Mozambique, where local authorities have expressed strong interest in the company’s expertise. He noted that these initiatives could create opportunities for collaboration between Algerian public and private enterprises and their African counterparts.

Chad project builds on Algeria-Chad energy agreement

The N’Djamena power plant represents the next phase of a bilateral energy cooperation agreement signed between Algeria and Chad in May. The initiative aims to bolster Chad’s national electricity grid, which has struggled to meet growing demand in urban centers.

In Niamey, the Gorou Banda plant was inaugurated by Algerian Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb, representing President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, alongside Nigerien Prime Minister Ali Mahamane Lamine Zeine. The event marked a historic milestone as Sonelgaz-International’s first international power project.

Logistical triumph: From Algeria to Niger in record time

Yazid Djellouli, CEO of Sonelgaz-International, described the Gorou Banda project as a «logistical and industrial milestone», achieved in record time. Under the directive of Minister Adjal and aligned with presidential directives, the company mobilized over 50 engineers and technicians by late March, initiating a complex airlift operation involving more than 20 flights via Air Algérie Cargo.

Djellouli highlighted that the project’s rapid completion—just three months from launch to inauguration—demonstrates Sonelgaz-International’s operational efficiency. «This is only the beginning,» he stated, «we will replicate this success in Niger and beyond.»

The new plant is expected to increase Niger’s national electricity output by approximately 20%, significantly enhancing energy supply to the capital. Beyond power generation, Sonelgaz-International is also conducting feasibility studies to rehabilitate and strengthen Niger’s aging electrical infrastructure, particularly along the Niamey-Agadez corridor.

Djellouli revealed that the company has previously delivered major energy programs totaling 8,000 MW and 4,000 MW in partnership with international firms, laying the groundwork for its current international expansion.

Capacity building and future partnerships

Khalil Hedna, Director of Communication at Algeria’s Ministry of Energy and Renewable Energies, emphasized that the Gorou Banda plant represents a pivotal step in Sonelgaz-International’s international development. He also noted that Nigerien technicians have received specialized training in plant operation and maintenance, with plans underway to establish a spare parts depot.

Fati Abarchi, Managing Director of NIGELEC, praised the Algeria-Niger partnership as an «exceptional experience» and predicted its continuation. She described the new plant as a landmark achievement for Niger’s energy sector, «destined to enter the history books.»

Next steps in West Africa

With the N’Djamena project on the horizon, Sonelgaz-International is poised to solidify its role as a key player in Africa’s energy transition. The company’s growing portfolio—spanning project development, infrastructure rehabilitation, and technical training—positions it as a trusted partner for nations seeking to modernize their power sectors.