Algeria and Chad sign deal for 40 MW power plant in N’Djamena

Algeria and Chad have formalized a landmark agreement this week in Algiers, committing to the construction of a 40-megawatt power plant in N’Djamena.

The landmark deal was signed by Mourad Adjal, Algeria’s Minister of Energy and Renewable Energies, and Passalé Kanabé Marcelin, Chad’s Minister of Water and Energy. The project is set to significantly boost electricity production in Chad’s capital while deepening bilateral cooperation between the two nations—aligned with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s vision of supporting African development and fostering South-South collaboration.

Project details and technical readiness

Following high-level discussions in Algiers, both ministers reviewed strategies to expand energy cooperation, covering electricity generation, transmission, and distribution. They also explored opportunities in equipment supply, gas infrastructure, and workforce training as part of a comprehensive partnership framework.

Adjal confirmed that all technical studies for the power plant have been completed. A technical team from Algeria’s Sonelgaz recently conducted a site visit in N’Djamena, and preparations are underway for equipment delivery and groundbreaking. He also announced that a group of Chadian engineers will undergo a month-long training program at Sonelgaz training facilities in Algeria. These skilled professionals will eventually oversee the plant’s operation once it becomes operational. Additionally, the bilateral cooperation includes upgrading the capital’s aging electrical grid.

Algeria recognized as a regional energy leader

Marcelin hailed the agreement as a historic milestone in South-South cooperation and a major step forward in Algeria–Chad relations. He noted that the foundations for this partnership were laid during President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno’s official visit to Algeria last April, which strengthened the strategic ties between the two countries.

He expressed profound appreciation for Algeria’s sustained support to Chad, especially in the energy sector, calling Algeria « a true benchmark » for African nations in electricity production and infrastructure. Marcelin emphasized that Chad is keen to leverage Algeria’s expertise, sharing that 12 Chadian trainees are currently undergoing specialized training in Algeria’s power plant operations, with more cohorts expected to follow.

A fully Algerian-built power plant

Yazid Djellouli, CEO of Sonelgaz International, emphasized that the upcoming power plant in N’Djamena will be entirely Algerian in design, equipment, and labor force. He stated that Chadian authorities will soon begin site preparation, equipment delivery, and construction activities.

Djellouli added that Sonelgaz International aims to expand its presence across Africa, having received multiple requests from African governments for energy and infrastructure projects since its establishment earlier this year. Saleh Ben Haliki, Managing Director of TchadElec, also praised the project as one of the first tangible outcomes of the renewed energy ties between Algeria and Chad. He highlighted Chad’s strong desire to adopt Algeria’s proven expertise in electrical coverage, reaffirming Algeria’s status as a regional leader in the sector.