Hassi Messaoud, Algeria – Sonatrach CEO, Noureddine Daoudi, inaugurated a series of new projects and equipment at the Hassi Messaoud energy complex on Sunday. The unveiling occurred during a visit focused on evaluating strategic projects aimed at strengthening national drilling capabilities and enhancing operational performance.
A statement released by Sonatrach highlighted the launch of the “National Well Work Company/Real-Time Eyes of the Enterprise” center, designed to bolster decision-making processes. This center utilizes a remote monitoring system powered by a technological solution integrating artificial intelligence. The system is supported by a network of advanced cameras installed on various drilling rigs.
The center was completed in record time, leveraging exclusively national expertise with the collaboration of emerging startups. It will enable real-time operational monitoring and ensure performance tracking through continuous observation of key performance indicators, ultimately optimizing resource utilization.
Daoudi emphasized the critical role of innovation as a cornerstone for achieving Sonatrach’s objectives. He stated that Sonatrach is investing heavily in modern equipment and technologies.
Two new “fast-moving” 750-horsepower drilling rigs were also commissioned. These are the first two in a series of eight drilling rigs with varying capacities programmed as part of a medium-term plan. These acquisitions represent a significant leap for the National Well Work Company, enabling it to diversify and strengthen its service offerings. Additionally, a 1500-horsepower drilling rig, equipped with a variable frequency drive control system, was put into operation.
This commissioning concludes a program to refurbish five drilling rigs initially acquired as used equipment. Abdelghafour Ghaleb, CEO of the National Well Work Company, highlighted the benefits of this program, noting the complete rehabilitation of the branch’s services using internal expertise. He revealed cost savings exceeding $150 million, equivalent to the cost of acquiring similar new equipment.
Daoudi affirmed that these investments align with the implementation of Sonatrach’s 2030 strategy. He emphasized the company’s commitment to modernizing its operations and enhancing its contribution to the national economy.
