BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Algiers, Algeria | October 14th, 2024 — In a resounding call for innovation and sustainability, Rachid Hachichi, the CEO of Sonatrach, addressed esteemed guests at the inauguration of the twelfth edition of the North Africa and Mediterranean Hydrogen and Energy Conference (NAPEC 2024), held at the conference center in Oran. The event brought together ministers, ambassadors, industry leaders, and media representatives to discuss critical issues facing the energy sector.
Opening his remarks with gratitude, Hachichi expressed his appreciation to the organizers for their diligence in making this year’s conference a distinctive gathering focused on pivotal energy themes. “This edition addresses a fundamental question for the future of global energy: how to balance hydrocarbons with clean energy sources,” he stated, underscoring the urgent need to achieve an effective and sustainable energy mix in an era increasingly dominated by renewable energy.
Hachichi emphasized the necessity of developing coherent and harmonious solutions to meet the growing demand for energy while respecting environmental requirements. He pointed out that a balanced energy mix relies on diversifying energy sources to reduce dependency on a single fuel and better adapt to fluctuations in the global market. “This practical and realistic approach acknowledges that transitioning to cleaner energy is not an overnight task; it requires a cautious and gradual adoption by all stakeholders,” he added.
Central to this transition, Hachichi highlighted the continued significance of hydrocarbons, particularly natural gas, which he described as the least polluting energy source compared to coal or oil. Yet, he firmly stated that renewable energy sources must be at the core of Algeria’s long-term strategy, with solar, wind, and green hydrogen gaining increasing importance. “These energy sources are not only sustainable but are also becoming progressively competitive on an economic level,” he asserted, stressing the need for collaborative efforts to effectively integrate these renewables into the energy mix while maximizing the benefits of existing hydrocarbons.
The key to a successful energy transition, according to Hachichi, lies in innovation. He underscored the importance of developing cleaner technologies in exploration, production, transportation, and utilization of hydrocarbons to mitigate their environmental impact. Additionally, he advocated for adopting appropriate technologies such as carbon capture and storage (CCS) and more efficient extraction techniques, alongside minimizing methane leaks, to render hydrocarbons more environmentally friendly while ensuring global energy supply security.
Reflecting on Algeria’s role as a major hydrocarbon producer, Hachichi noted the country’s significant responsibility in the energy transition process. “With our vast and diverse natural resources, it is imperative to harness our renewable energy potential,” he urged, highlighting Algeria’s unique advantage in solar energy development due to its extensive desert areas. He reiterated that natural gas can play a crucial role in transitioning to a low-carbon energy future, while emphasizing the need to make tough but necessary choices regarding emission reductions and expanding renewable energy capacities.
Hachichi acknowledged the progress Algeria has already made, citing projects aimed at enhancing energy infrastructure and attracting foreign investments in hydrocarbons and renewable sectors. However, he stressed the importance of further steps towards establishing a more conducive regulatory framework to foster clean energy development, alongside the urgent need for training qualified workforce and forming international partnerships for technology transfer.
In conclusion, Hachichi reaffirmed Sonatrach’s commitment to actively contribute to NAPEC 2024 through engaging participation in panel discussions aimed at fostering new ideas and synergies on various agenda topics. He expressed confidence that the discussions would provide promising and innovative prospects for the future of the energy sector. “We hope that the presentations during these three days will meet everyone’s expectations and pave the way for a fruitful future for our sector,” he concluded, urging collective action and experience-sharing to tackle upcoming challenges and build a sustainable energy future.
Read Also:
NAPEC 2024: Global Energy Giants to Convene in Oran for North Africa’s Largest Energy Exhibition
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
Stay informed with the latest news, programs, and updates from Dzair Tube. Visit www.dzair-tube.dz, and for the English version, go to www.dzair-tube.dz/en/. Join Dzair Tube’s dynamic community on social media platforms.
