Algeria is set to produce photovoltaic panels for street lighting by 2025, aiming to expand the use of solar streetlights across the country. The Minister of Energy and Mines, Mohamed Arkab, revealed this plan during a conference on the development of the renewable energy sector, signaling a major step in the nation’s green transition. This initiative is a cornerstone of the growing Algeria solar panel manufacturing ecosystem.
Expanding Algeria Solar Street Lighting
Algeria is taking significant steps to boost solar street lighting across the country. The Minister of Energy and Mines, Mohamed Arkab, announced that Algeria will start producing photovoltaic panels specifically for street lighting by the first quarter of 2025. This move is a key part of the country’s strategy to expand the use of solar streetlights and enhance its domestic manufacturing capabilities.
According to Arkab, the photovoltaic panels will be produced at an integrated plant established by the national energy company, Sonelgaz, in Boukherana, in the province of Souk Ahras. This facility will handle the complete solar panel manufacturing process, from sourcing raw materials to final assembly. The project is expected to provide advanced solar streetlights to various municipalities, particularly those still reliant on conventional lighting systems.
“We will soon launch the production of photovoltaic panels for the benefit of municipalities,” Arkab stated. “This will allow them to switch from conventional street lighting to solar-powered solutions.” More than just a simple switch, the strategy involves deploying standalone photovoltaic plants to power entire smart street lighting systems, a more efficient alternative to individual solar-powered lights.
An Ambitious Goal for National Algeria solar street lighting
The initiative to produce photovoltaic panels is part of Algeria’s broader ambition to have a vast majority of its streetlights powered by solar energy. While an earlier target aimed for 80% coverage by 2024, the launch of domestic production in 2025 will be the critical accelerator for achieving this nationwide goal. The Ministry of Energy and Mines is working closely with Sonelgaz to implement this vision, viewing smart solar lighting as a powerful tool to reduce national energy consumption.
This approach incorporates intelligent energy management, using AI-driven algorithms to operate a dimming strategy. Lights will only activate to full intensity when vehicles or pedestrians are detected, otherwise operating at a reduced level. This method is projected to cut energy consumption and maintenance costs by at least 48%.
Beyond street lighting, Algeria is also focusing on other large-scale renewable energy projects. The country plans to install 15,000 megawatts (MW) of solar power by 2035. The first phase, “Solar 1,000,” aims to install 1,000 MW by 2025, with an estimated cost between 800 million and 1 billion euros. Understanding the solar panel manufacturing plant cost breakdown provides insight into the scale of such investments. The country is also partnering with international groups like Germany’s Desertec Industrial Initiative (Dii Africa) to develop massive solar projects in the Sahara Desert, with potential for energy export to Europe.
Benefits of Smart Algeria solar street lighting
Smart solar street lighting offers several profound benefits for Algeria. By using solar power instead of conventional electricity, the country can significantly reduce its energy consumption and lower its carbon emissions. These systems also offer greater reliability, especially in remote areas where grid access can be unstable.
The economic advantages are equally compelling. The smart dimming strategy not only saves energy but also extends the lifespan of the components, reducing maintenance needs. Furthermore, the centralized photovoltaic plants can be designed to generate surplus energy during the day, which can be used to power other community services like DC water pumps or provide domestic power, directly combating energy poverty and enhancing the overall sustainability of the infrastructure.
Algeria’s Commitment to a Renewable Future in Algeria solar street lighting
Algeria’s plan to locally produce photovoltaic panels for street lighting is a major step forward in its renewable energy strategy. It demonstrates a commitment that goes beyond simple installation to building a self-sufficient industry, from understanding the basics of solar panel manufacturing to operating advanced solar panel manufacturing machines.
With production set to begin in early 2025, Algeria is positioning itself to meet its ambitious renewable energy goals. This focus on smart solar lighting, combined with its utility-scale solar projects, will not only reduce the nation’s carbon footprint but also promote a greener, more sustainable future, reflecting positive trends seen in the Global Solar Report.
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