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During his visit, and in the presence of Sonelgaz CEO Mourad Adjal and ministry officials, the minister received detailed explanations about the operations of the Electrical System Operator (OSE) and the nature of its equipment.
According to the ministry's statement, this operator is considered "the brain of the national electrical grid, serving as the decision-making center to ensure the balance of the electrical system by reconciling supply and demand." It relies on the latest management technologies, including "a reliable information system and advanced remote monitoring and control systems." This setup allows it to respond "optimally and promptly to priority electricity needs and stakeholder expectations, thus ensuring better service continuity and quality."
The Electrical System Operator also considers "the future evolution of the electrical system, including the integration of renewable energy into the national grid, and the requirements of international interconnections, while reducing operating and maintenance costs."
The minister highlighted that "the national electricity production capacity, close to 26,000 megawatts, covers all domestic needs during peak and off-peak periods." Algeria recently set new records for electricity demand, with a peak of 19,135 megawatts on July 18, 2024, marking a notable increase compared to July 2023, where a peak of 18,697 megawatts was recorded. Another peak was noted at 14:00, reaching 19,422 megawatts.
Arkab also mentioned that Sonelgaz has "started preparations for the summer of 2024 since September 2023, completing all necessary work and projects to ensure optimal electricity supply during the summer season." This includes "the implementation of major state-funded investment projects and an emergency program to strengthen the electricity transmission network, particularly in the 16 provinces that experienced exceptional electricity consumption last year."
Sonelgaz's projects, supported by significant state investments, are aimed at meeting citizens' electricity needs. The minister stated that "all necessary measures have been taken by Sonelgaz companies to enhance electricity production and reorganize the network with equipment capable of handling temperatures above 55 degrees." This is the result of substantial state investments in Sonelgaz's various projects and the expertise gained by the historical operator in electricity production, transmission, and distribution in Algeria.
The minister also praised the efforts of all Sonelgaz employees, including managers, engineers, technicians, and maintenance teams specialized in electricity and gas production, distribution, and transport. He indicated that Sonelgaz will continue to fulfill its commitments regarding electricity and gas connections for citizens, agricultural areas, industrial zones, and various activity zones.
Furthermore, during a press statement, the minister announced that "Sonatrach and Sonelgaz are preparing to sign contracts for the construction of an underwater electrical cable linking Algeria to Europe." This project, Arkab clarified, "will enable Algeria to export conventional electricity generated from natural gas, as well as electricity produced from alternative and renewable sources."
He emphasized the "historic importance of this project for Algeria" and added that "preparations are underway for the signing of these contracts, with the goal of starting the construction of this cable."