Algeria plans to upgrade its power grid by implementing a new SCADA system by 2026, making it the first country in North Africa to adopt this advanced technology. This upgrade is a cornerstone of a broader national strategy aimed at enhancing the efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of Algeria’s electricity infrastructure.
Sonelgaz to Launch Advanced Algeria SCADA Upgrade
Algeria is set to modernize its power grid by becoming the first country in North Africa to adopt a new SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) system. The national electricity and gas company, Sonelgaz, announced plans to have the system fully operational by 2026.
According to a report by Algerie Invest, CEO of Sonelgaz, Mourad Adjal, revealed that the company will launch a new-generation SCADA system directly linked to the national power grid. This advanced technology will provide real-time monitoring and control, enabling the grid to autonomously manage electricity consumption and production, thereby significantly improving operational efficiency and reliability.
Mourad Adjal emphasized the importance of this innovation, stating that the SCADA system is designed to enhance the management of the power grid from production to distribution. By 2026, Algeria will pioneer the deployment of this advanced SCADA technology in the region. This initiative is a key component of Sonelgaz’s broader strategy to modernize its infrastructure and improve service delivery across the nation.
SCADA to Optimize Electricity Management in Algeria
The integration of the SCADA system into Algeria’s power grid is expected to bring transformative improvements to the management of electricity. A smart grid is essential for a modern energy sector, and this system will play a crucial role in ensuring a stable and reliable power supply as the country’s energy demands grow. Its ability to provide granular data will help pinpoint inefficiencies, predict maintenance needs, and prevent outages before they occur.
This upgrade is particularly vital as Algeria expands its renewable energy capacity. Integrating variable power sources like solar requires a sophisticated management system. The new Algeria solar power program will add significant generation capacity, and the SCADA system will be instrumental in balancing this fluctuating supply with consumer demand, ensuring grid stability. Effective grid modernization is the backbone that allows for the smooth integration of solar-generated electricity.
In addition to the SCADA system, Sonelgaz is also focusing on other technological advancements. Mourad Adjal highlighted a new electronic management system that will streamline the operation of the company’s various facilities, enhancing overall productivity and process efficiency.
Algeria’s Energy Sector: Key Developments in SCADA Upgrade
The SCADA implementation is part of a much larger vision for Algeria’s energy sector. The government has unveiled an impressive Algeria energy investment plan, committing nearly $60 billion between 2024 and 2029 to modernize the sector and boost production. This massive financial injection underscores the nation’s commitment to becoming a more dominant and sustainable global energy supplier.
A significant portion of this investment is directed toward renewables. The government has set an ambitious target of generating 15 GW from renewable sources by 2035, with solar power being the clear frontrunner. This strategy is supported by initiatives designed to encourage local production, creating opportunities for investors familiar with the basics of manufacturing solar components. These developments in Algerian solar manufacturing are critical to achieving the country’s long-term energy goals.
Key partnerships are also driving this transition. A notable highlight was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Sonelgaz and Siemens, focusing on renewable energy and the development of a green hydrogen economy. This collaboration aims to diversify Algeria’s energy mix and explore green hydrogen’s potential as a clean fuel alternative.
While embracing renewables, Algeria continues to leverage its traditional energy strengths. The country has signed several agreements to expand its natural gas exports to Europe, reinforcing its role as a key energy partner and boosting its national economy.
The introduction of the SCADA system is a critical milestone in Algeria’s energy evolution. It is not merely a technical upgrade but a foundational enabler of the country’s ambitious energy transition. As Algeria invests heavily in modernizing its infrastructure and expanding its renewable portfolio, including new solar panel Algeria projects, the SCADA system will be the intelligent core of a more resilient, efficient, and sustainable national power grid.
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