Over 107,000 Farms Connected to Electricity in Algeria
Minister of Energy Mourad Adjal announced that 107,704 agricultural exploitations have been connected to electricity since 2022. The minister affirmed the continuation of efforts aimed at improving public energy services and meeting the nation's increasing demand for both electricity and gas. This announcement was made during a presentation to the Finance and Budget Committee of the National People's Assembly, outlining proposed priorities for the sector's 2027 budget.
The electrification process for agricultural exploitations, which commenced in 2022, has already seen the completion of 107,704 connections. Furthermore, 5,845 additional connections are currently under construction, with another 4,822 operations in the initial stages. The Ministry of Energy is working in coordination with the agriculture sector to address all local service requests. Beyond agricultural sites, over 2.7 million homes have been connected to gas and more than 521,000 homes to electricity. Economic activities have also seen significant support, with 43 industrial zones and 102 activity zones connected to electricity, alongside 31 industrial zones and 71 activity zones linked to gas.
In the domain of renewable energies, the national program aims to produce 15,000 megawatts by 2035. The first phase of this ambitious plan includes the establishment of 21 photovoltaic solar power plants across 14 provinces, with a total capacity of 3,200 megawatts, of which 760 megawatts peak have already commenced operation. For 2026, three programs are being implemented to develop off-grid renewable energy solutions, including the electrification of over 2,500 isolated homes using individual solar photovoltaic systems, particularly in remote areas, and the installation of 100 solar-powered water pumping systems for agricultural exploitations. Additionally, 1,000 solar energy systems are planned for installation on the rooftops of public buildings and facilities.
Further plans include feasibility studies for two wind power projects with a combined capacity of 200 megawatts, as well as preparatory studies for experimental projects in geothermal, biomass, and hydropower to explore and enhance national potential in these areas. Public safety initiatives continue with the free installation of carbon monoxide detectors in homes, totaling 21 million units installed to date with a target of 22 million. Preparations for the 2026-2027 academic year saw Sonelgaz connect 627 educational institutions, five university structures, and three vocational training centers to electricity and gas. Moreover, 1,000 electric vehicle charging points have been completed nationwide, slated to become operational in 2027.
