Three Solar Power Plants Add 700 MW to National Grid

Algeria has significantly advanced its national renewable energy program with the commissioning of three new solar photovoltaic power plants in 2026, adding a combined capacity of 700 megawatts (MW) to the national electricity mix. This strategic development is set to bolster the country's renewable energy share and contribute to reducing its reliance on natural gas, marking a tangible step towards energy independence. The new facilities are integral to Algeria's National Renewable Energy Program, which aims for an installed capacity of 15,000 MW by 2035.

The commissioning process unfolded in two distinct phases, as identified by the Washington-based specialized platform Attaqa. The first phase, in May 2026, saw the launch of two plants, each with a capacity of 200 MW. This was followed by a second phase in October, which included the inauguration of a major 300 MW infrastructure. These plants are strategically located across three key wilayas: El M'Ghair, Biskra, and El Oued, moving several solar projects from construction to active operation.

Among the commissioned facilities, the Tendla power plant in El M'Ghair, with its 200 MW capacity, was inaugurated on May 18, 2026, by the Minister of Energy and Renewable Energies, although it was operational from April 2026. Spanning approximately 400 hectares, its connection to the national grid secures the region's electricity supply. Similarly, the 200 MW El Ghrous plant in Biskra, also inaugurated on May 18, 2026, addresses the increasing electricity demand from the agricultural, urban, and industrial sectors in the Biskra wilaya. The third and most powerful plant, El Foulia, located in the commune of Guemar in El Oued, commenced operations on October 26, delivering 300 MW and completing the year's second phase of energy deliveries. These 700 MW of newly commissioned capacity represent 21.9% of the national program's first phase target of 3,200 MW and 4.7% of the overall 2035 objective of 15,000 MW.