Algerian Energy Minister Arkab Affirms National Electricity Production Meets Peak Demands

✏️ By: Dr. Hana Saada

Algiers, Algeria | July 21st, 2024 — Mohamed Arkab, Algeria’s Minister of Energy and Mines, assured on Sunday that the country’s electricity production is well-equipped to meet peak demand periods, emphasizing that the national grid operates efficiently even during high consumption times.

Record-Breaking Electricity Demand

Minister Arkab highlighted that Algeria’s electricity production capacity, nearing 26,000 megawatts, fully covers the nation’s needs during peak periods. The country has recently witnessed unprecedented peaks in electricity demand. On July 18, 2024, a record consumption peak of 19,135 megawatts was recorded, marking a significant increase from the previous year when the peak reached 18,697 megawatts. Additionally, another peak of 19,422 megawatts was observed at 2 PM on the same day.

State-Funded Investment Projects

Arkab elaborated on the extensive preparations undertaken by Sonelgaz, the state-owned utility company, for the summer of 2024, which began in September 2023. The preparations included the completion of essential projects to ensure a stable electricity supply during the high-demand summer months. Significant state-funded investment projects were completed, including an urgent program to reinforce the electrical transmission network, particularly in 16 provinces that experienced exceptional electricity consumption last year.

Infrastructure and Technological Enhancements

To meet the electricity demands of Algerian citizens, Sonelgaz has implemented numerous measures to bolster electricity production and optimize the network. The infrastructure now includes equipment capable of withstanding temperatures exceeding 55 degrees Celsius. These improvements are a result of substantial state investments and the expertise accumulated by Sonelgaz in the fields of electricity production, transmission, and distribution.

Acknowledging Sonelgaz’s Efforts

The Minister also praised the efforts of Sonelgaz’s staff—engineers, technicians, and maintenance teams—for their continuous response to power outages and their crucial role in ensuring a reliable electricity supply. Arkab announced that Sonelgaz would continue to fulfill its commitments regarding the connection of electricity and gas networks to citizens, agricultural areas, industrial zones, and other key sectors.

National Control Center for the Electricity Grid

During a working visit to the National Electricity System Management Center in Gué de Constantine, Algiers, Arkab received insights into the center’s operations. The center, considered the brain of Algeria’s national electrical network, plays a pivotal role in balancing supply and demand by making critical decisions on the electricity system. It employs advanced management technologies and a reliable information system to provide optimal service continuity and quality.

Integration of Renewable Energies

The center also focuses on future developments, including the integration of renewable energy sources into the national grid and the requirements for international interconnections. By leveraging these advanced technologies, the center aims to reduce operational and maintenance costs while enhancing the system’s efficiency and sustainability.

The Minister’s statements and the ongoing investments highlight Algeria’s commitment to ensuring a stable and reliable electricity supply, meeting growing demands, and advancing towards a more sustainable energy future.

About Dzair Tube Media Group

Dzair Tube has firmly positioned itself as a leading force in Algerian digital journalism, delivering a rich and diverse array of content. Available in Arabic, French, and English, Dzair Tube captivates a broad audience, drawing over half a million daily clicks.

The platform’s excellence was notably recognized with the prestigious President of the Republic’s Award for Professional Journalist in the Electronic Press category on October 22, 2022. This accolade underscores Dzair Tube’s steadfast commitment to the highest journalistic standards.

Dzair Tube’s substantial online footprint includes 350,000 YouTube subscribers, over six million followers across various Facebook pages, and 450,000 Instagram followers. The digital channel serves as a nexus for a wide range of programming, spanning news, sports, entertainment, culture, and religion, catering to a diverse audience.

Boasting cutting-edge studios and advanced technology, Dzair Tube’s digital channel has attracted a significant viewership with its varied programs. It facilitates interactive discussions with key figures from various sectors, promoting public discourse and engagement. Beyond news, Dzair Tube excels in producing marketing documentaries, short TV commercials, and high-viewership shows.

The print edition of Dzair Tube’s sports newspaper, “Dzair Sport,” further attests to the platform’s influence, with over 50,000 daily downloads from the official Dzair Tube website.

Awarded the Media Leadership Award by the Minister of Communication, Mohamed Laâgab, Dzair Tube continues to shape the Algerian digital media landscape, maintaining its position of influence and impact. Additionally, Dzair Tube’s prominence in Algeria’s media scene was celebrated at the ninth edition of the “Hilals of the Television” competition, solidifying its status as a media leader.

Stay Connected with Dzair Tube