The Algerian government has expressed its ambition to establish an electricity connection with Libya and Egypt. This project is part of a broader regional strategy aimed at launching “electricity corridors” with the European Union, focusing on renewable energy.
Noureddine Yassaa, Algeria’s Secretary of State for Renewable Energies, confirmed that Algeria views renewable energy as a key driver of sustainable economic development. He stated during an interview on the national radio programme “Forum” that the country plans to connect its electricity grid with neighbouring nations, including Libya, the Sahel region, and Egypt.
Yassaa highlighted Algeria’s current energy capacity, boasting 99% electricity access and 70% gas coverage. This, he said, places Algeria in a leading regional role and enables the country to support the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals, by providing access to essential services such as water, food, and healthcare.
In recent years, Libya has attracted significant regional and European attention as a potential energy hub. Last July, Prime Minister Abdelhamid Dbaiba of Libya’s Government of National Unity (GNU) and Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly agreed to enhance bilateral electricity cooperation and activate the long-planned Libya-Egypt power connection.
Tunisia and Algeria have also worked on reinforcing a three-way electricity grid connection with Libya. In early 2024, Tunisia’s Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy signed agreements with Algeria’s Sonelgaz to improve electricity exchange and plan future energy projects. The goal includes establishing a power line linking Tunisia, Algeria, and Libya, enabling the exchange of up to 1,500 megawatts.
In June 2024, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya successfully tested a synchronised electricity transmission network for 24 hours, exchanging between 400 and 500 megawatts in real time. This trial paves the way for a joint electricity market.
Libya is also exploring potential energy links with Malta, Italy, and Greece. The Libyan General Electricity Company recently discussed challenges and progress related to these plans during a meeting in Tripoli.
Despite ongoing investment—2.5 billion Libyan dinars by July 2024—power outages persist in Libya, particularly during the summer. Nevertheless, Libya continues to subsidise electricity prices, according to the Central Bank of Libya.
