What You Need to Know
The Trans-Saharan pipeline project, the largest of its kind in Africa, is set to commence operations after Ramadan. It will transport 20 to 30 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually from Nigeria to Europe, passing through Niger and Algeria. The project is estimated to cost $13 billion and is seen as a vital energy partnership between Algeria and Niger.
Africa-Press. In a project considered the largest of its kind in Africa, the Trans-Saharan pipeline is set to enter its operational phase immediately after Ramadan. The project aims to transport between 20 to 30 billion cubic meters of natural gas annually from Nigeria to Europe, passing through Niger and Algeria.
The pipeline is expected to extend over 4,128 kilometers, with the Algerian company Sonatrach responsible for initiating the preliminary work to lay the pipeline across Niger’s territory.
However, the remaining distance to complete the connection between the three countries is specifically 1,800 kilometers, most of which lies in Niger.
Cost and Financing Mechanism
Estimates suggest that the project’s cost will reach $13 billion, described as an economic option, as part of the project will benefit from existing infrastructure.
Algeria and Nigeria will jointly handle the laying and financing of the pipeline, with the possibility of some African banks contributing to this massive project.
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune describes the step as “pivotal” in the energy partnership between Algeria and Niger.
This announcement by the Algerian president ends a period of stagnation, marking the first statement at the presidential level regarding implementation, after previous discussions were limited to energy ministers, according to a local source.
Obstacles Delaying Progress
Kadadra explained that the project has always enjoyed Algerian-Nigerian consensus but faced obstacles in Niger, particularly in the last three years due to internal political changes in the country.
The new pipeline is expected to connect to Algeria’s advanced gas network, from where it will then reach Europe via maritime pipelines linking Algeria to Italy and Spain, potentially providing a lifeline for Europe seeking to diversify its energy sources.
The Trans-Saharan pipeline project has been in discussion for years, aiming to enhance energy cooperation between Algeria and Nigeria. Despite previous agreements, political instability in Niger has delayed progress. The project is now seen as crucial for Europe, which seeks to diversify its energy sources amid changing global dynamics. The completion of this pipeline could significantly impact energy supply routes and economic relations in the region.
