How is Algeria Supporting Syria's Electricity Sector?
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Synopsis
Algeria is stepping up to assist Syria in revitalizing its electricity sector. With a comprehensive roadmap for cooperation, this initiative aims to address pressing energy challenges and foster skill development. Discover how these countries are collaborating to power Syria's future sustainably.
Key Takeaways
- Algeria to support Syria's electricity sector.
- Plans for expert assessments and training programs.
- Focus on cooperation in renewable energy and hydrocarbons.
- Partnership aims at developing infrastructure post-conflict.
- Investment of 7 billion US dollars for electricity projects.
Algiers, June 5 (NationPress) - Algeria has unveiled its intention to bolster Syria's electricity sector and craft a detailed collaboration framework, as stated by the Ministry of Energy and Mining.
The announcement, made on Wednesday, disclosed that Algerian Minister of Energy and Mining, Mohamed Arkab, engaged in a telephone dialogue with Syrian energy head Mohammed al-Bashir to explore strategies for strengthening bilateral cooperation.
Discussions centered on joint efforts in electricity production, transmission, distribution, and network maintenance. As part of its initiative, Algeria plans to send a group of experts from the state-run gas and electricity distribution firm Sonelgaz to Syria to evaluate the sector's hurdles and formulate a comprehensive action plan aimed at enhancing power generation, infrastructure, and equipment upkeep, according to Xinhua news agency.
Additionally, Algeria has proposed to host Syrian professionals for training programs in electricity and gas at Sonelgaz's specialized institutions, promoting knowledge transfer and local capacity enhancement.
Both parties expressed a mutual commitment to broadening cooperation into other crucial sectors, including hydrocarbons, mining, and renewable energy.
They underscored the necessity of transforming this partnership into concrete, sustainable initiatives while amplifying expert exchanges and institutional visits.
Syria has been grappling with critical electricity shortages for years, attributed to fuel scarcities, a lack of spare parts stemming from Western sanctions, and war-inflicted infrastructural damage. Currently, the nation produces only 1,500 megawatts of electricity, significantly lower than the required 7,000 megawatts to satisfy basic needs.
On May 29, Syria had earlier inked several memoranda of understanding with international energy firms for the development of five significant power projects, aimed at reconstructing its war-ravaged infrastructure and hastening the country's post-war recovery.
The agreements, signed in the presence of Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, represent a total investment of 7 billion US dollars and are anticipated to yield 5,000 megawatts of electricity.
The projects include four combined-cycle gas turbine power plants to be established in Deir al-Zour in eastern Syria, Mhardeh, Zayzoun in rural Hama province, and Trifawi in rural Homs province, along with a 1,000-megawatt solar energy facility in Wedian al-Rabia town in the outskirts of the capital Damascus.
Point of View
Algeria's commitment to supporting Syria's electricity sector is a vital step towards fostering regional stability and cooperation. This partnership not only aims to address immediate energy shortages but also emphasizes knowledge transfer and infrastructure development. As national editors, we recognize the importance of such collaborations in rebuilding war-torn nations and promoting sustainable growth. The commitment to enhancing bilateral relations between Algeria and Syria serves as a beacon of hope in challenging times.
NationPress
26/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main areas of cooperation between Algeria and Syria?
Algeria and Syria are focusing on several key areas including electricity production, transmission, distribution, and network maintenance, as well as training programs for Syrian specialists in electricity and gas.
What challenges does Syria face in its electricity sector?
Syria has been experiencing severe electricity shortages due to fuel deficits, lack of spare parts due to Western sanctions, and significant infrastructure damage from ongoing conflict.
What investments are being made in Syria's electricity projects?
Syria has signed agreements for a total investment of 7 billion US dollars aimed at developing five major power projects, which are expected to generate 5,000 megawatts of electricity.
