Sonelgaz kicks off groundwork for 40 MW power plant in Chad’s capital
A high-level delegation from Sonelgaz, Algeria’s state-owned energy giant, has arrived in N’Djamena to initiate preparations for a 40-megawatt (MW) power plant project in Chad. This initiative aligns with President Abdelmadjid Tebboune’s vision to bolster African cooperation and strengthen South-South partnerships, particularly with Chad. The move follows the official visit of Chadian President Mahamat Idriss Déby Itno to Algeria from April 22 to 24.
The Algerian delegation, led by Yazid Djellouli, CEO of Sonelgaz-International, was welcomed by the CEO of Tchad-Elec, Chad’s national electricity utility, along with Algeria’s ambassador to Chad and senior officials from Chad’s Ministry of Energy. The delegation also met with Tahir Hamid Nguilin, Chad’s Minister of State for Finance, Budget, Economy, Planning, and International Cooperation, and Passalé Kanabé Marcelin, Chad’s Minister of Water and Energy. A communiqué highlighted the project’s strategic importance in deepening economic and energy ties between the two nations.
Key discussions and next steps
The visit included a working session with Tchad-Elec to address technical and regulatory aspects of the project. Priorities discussed included:
- Setting a joint roadmap to ensure seamless project execution
- Establishing bilateral working teams for coordinated efforts
- Conducting site inspections to assess existing infrastructure and grid compatibility
- Ensuring compliance with technical and regulatory standards before construction begins
The delegation will conduct on-site evaluations to determine infrastructure readiness, grid connection feasibility, and adherence to quality benchmarks. This preparatory phase underscores the commitment of both countries to sustainable energy partnerships and Sonelgaz’s pledge to support African partners through knowledge transfer, technical capacity building, and practical solutions tailored to the continent’s energy needs.
Transforming Chad’s energy landscape
The 40 MW power plant is poised to significantly enhance Chad’s electricity generation capacity, reducing reliance on imports and improving grid stability. By leveraging Sonelgaz’s expertise in large-scale energy projects, the initiative aims to set a benchmark for future collaborations in Africa, fostering long-term energy security and economic growth.

