Algerian solar plant inaugurated

The solar power plant in El Foulia, in the commune of Guemar, wilaya of El Oued, was inaugurated on October 26, 2026. This facility has a capacity of 300 MWc and is considered the largest solar plant in Algeria.

Support from national and international partners

The plant is part of an ongoing photovoltaic park and is supported by Sonelgaz, the public company responsible for electricity and gas production and distribution, through its subsidiary Sonelgaz-Renewable Energies. The project was built with the help of the Chinese company China State Construction Engineering (CSCEC).

Focus on local labor and expertise

During the inauguration, Algerian Energy and Renewable Energies Minister Mourad Adjal emphasized the role of Algerian workers in the construction and the plan to rely on national expertise for the plant's operation. The official ceremony occurred in October, but the plant was already connected to the electrical grid in the summer.

Early commissioning for peak demand

The early connection to the grid was intended to help meet increased electricity demand during the summer, a period marked by high use of air conditioning. This aligns with seasonal energy needs and helps stabilize the power supply.

Progress in Algeria’s solar expansion

El Foulia is the third solar plant to be completed in 2026, following plants in Tendla and El-Ghrous. These earlier projects each have a capacity of 200 MW and were connected to the grid in the spring before their official ceremonies.

Future plans and national goals

The government also plans to complete two new solar plants in El Oued by the first quarter of 2027, with capacities of 200 and 100 MW. These projects are part of a broader national goal to develop 15,000 MW of solar power by 2035.