Algeria activates first 200 MW solar plant in El-Meghaïer, part of 15 GW national program
via Algérie3602 min read
Algeria has successfully completed the experimental commissioning of the first 200 MW photovoltaic power plant in the Tendla region of El-Meghaïer. This marks a significant step in the national 3,200 MW program, with actual production set to begin in the coming weeks. The plant, built by Chinese company CSCEC over two years, spans 400 hectares, featuring 364,000 solar panels, 40 transformers, and a 30/220 kV evacuation post. A 2 km, 220 kV evacuation line will connect the site to the GRTE 220 kV post in El-Berd. The total investment for this facility is 64 million dollars. An identical 200 MW plant in Biskra will also become operational soon. These two plants are the first to be completed under the initial phase of Algeria's ambitious 15 GW national program, which aims to connect an additional 1,400 MW to the grid by the end of the year. This initiative is part of Algeria's strategy to diversify its energy sources, reduce reliance on hydrocarbons, and increase the share of solar power in its electricity production. The country is also exploring green electricity exports and hydrogen development, aligning with Europe's accelerated focus on renewable energy. Algeria is involved in projects like the SoutH2 corridor for green hydrogen transport to Europe and the proposed Medlink submarine cable to Italy. Additionally, Sonatrach plans to power its oil and gas facilities with 1.3 GW of solar energy by 2030 to eliminate flared gas.
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