Algeria Advances Green Industry Goals with Focus on Technology Transfer and Strategic Localization
Algeria is setting clear national objectives for the advancement of its green industry, prioritizing technology transfer, the localization of strategic industrial sectors, and the improvement of local content. This forward-looking approach is actively manifesting in the national steel industry, where efforts to "green" the sector are progressing. A significant step in this direction was the recent visit of a delegation from the Chinese steel giant Baowu Steel to Algiers, where they engaged with ministers from the Ministry of Energy and Hydrocarbons and leaders of the national SNS group. Discussions centered on developing a "green steelmaking" project, leveraging Baowu Steel's technological expertise to establish a complex powered by renewable energy.
The nation's abundant mineral and energy resources, coupled with its significant potential in renewable energies, position Algeria as an advantageous location for such initiatives. Furthermore, Algeria's strategic geographical location is recognized for opening doors to regional and international markets, enhancing the project's viability and future reach. The willingness of Baowu Steel to transfer its technology to Algeria is viewed as a pivotal step, poised to initiate a significant revolution in national industry. This mastery of a fully decarbonized industrial process is seen as an unprecedented achievement for Algeria, Africa, and potentially on a global scale. This revolutionary approach is not confined to steel but is also deemed applicable to other critical minerals like phosphate and zinc, signifying a broader national strategy for decarbonization across the entire mining domain, which is expected to fundamentally transform the national economic landscape.
This strategic awareness predates the Baowu Steel delegation's visit, having originated with the launch of the Ghar Djebilet complex project. This commitment is underscored by the ongoing construction of a 200-megawatt photovoltaic solar power plant at Ghar Djebilet, a substantial investment exceeding 19 billion dinars, being executed by the Chinese firm Crcc for Sonelgaz. Scheduled for completion by the end of 2026, this infrastructure is designed to provide power to the mining complex, iron treatment units, and the city of Tindouf. Minister of Energy and Hydrocarbons, Mohamed Arkab, has emphasized the sector's dedication to fostering qualitative partnerships with leading global industrial groups, reiterating the nation’s advantages, including significant energy resources, advanced natural gas infrastructure, and highly skilled national competencies.
