• Algeria’s state utility Sonelgaz has sent a technical team to Niger to prepare a new gas-fired power plant.

• The project comes as Niger faces electricity shortages and reduced imports from Nigeria.

• With only 20% of the population connected to power, Niger is racing to expand domestic generation.

Algeria has taken a new step in its plan to build a power plant in Niger, as the West African country struggles with chronic electricity shortages.

A technical team from Algeria’s state-owned utility Sonelgaz arrived in Niamey on Friday, February 27, to prepare the launch of the project, according to reports from Algeria Press Service. The delegation has begun site visits and coordination meetings with Nigerien officials.

The discussions focus on assessing the selected site in the Gorou Banda area and reviewing existing infrastructure. Engineers are expected to evaluate grid connection conditions and determine the electrical and gas equipment required for the project. The goal is to complete a full technical assessment before construction begins. No start date has yet been announced.

The mission follows a videoconference held on February 18 between Sonelgaz and Niger’s national electricity company, NIGELEC. During that meeting, both sides agreed to speed up operational preparations. The project calls for the installation of two gas turbines, each with a capacity of 20 megawatts.

A Country Under Power Strain

The initiative comes at a critical moment for Niger’s energy sector. According to the latest available World Bank data, only 20% of the population had access to electricity in 2023. Installed capacity was estimated at about 400 megawatts in 2024, based on figures from Global Energy Monitor and ClimateScope.

Niger relies heavily on electricity imports from neighboring Nigeria. In April 2025, Niger’s energy minister said Nigeria had reduced its electricity exports to the country by 42%, cutting daily supply from about 80 megawatts to 46 megawatts.

That reduction has increased pressure on domestic production and exposed the country’s vulnerability to external supply shocks.

In response, authorities have launched several projects aimed at boosting national generation capacity. In addition to the planned gas-fired plant with Sonelgaz, solar and thermal facilities totaling more than 100 megawatts were completed between 2024 and 2025, according to official statements reported in the Nigerien press.

The partnership with Algeria reflects a broader effort to secure more stable and diversified sources of power as Niger works to expand access and reduce its dependence on imports.

Abdel-Latif Boureima