The Future of Earth and Biodiversity Week
Algeria’s Strategy on Renewable Energies and Hydrogen
People's Democratic Republic of Algeria
Algeria presents its vision for energy transition and highlights the key pillars of the national hydrogen strategy, as well as the initiatives undertaken by key stakeholders such as SONATRACH and SONELGAZ in the fields of industrial development, integration into the national energy system, and positioning on the international stage. Furthermore, this event will provide a platform for dialogue on international cooperation and Algeria’s integration into the global hydrogen economy, thereby reinforcing the country’s role as a regional energy hub and a strategic partner in the field of renewable and sustainable energies.
Recorded video available
Discussion
- Renewable energy
- Hydrogen society
- Nature Positive
- "Renewable energy and hydrogen society"
| Transmission of simultaneous interpretation | Provided |
|---|---|
| Language of interpretation | Japanese and English |
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Track Programme
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Time and
Date of
the event -
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2025.09.17[Wed]
10:30 ～ 12:30
(Venue Open 10:00)
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- Venue
- Theme Weeks Studio
Programme details
*Subtitles: Choose “Subtitles/CC” in the “Settings” (gear
icon) at the bottom right of the YouTube video.
*Subtitles may not show with multiple languages or overlapping
audio.
Reports
【Reflection】
The panel discussion on Algeria’s renewable energies and
hydrogen strategy at Expo 2025 on the 17th September 2025,
provided a compelling vision of how a resource-rich nation is
reorienting its energy policy toward sustainability,
innovation, and international cooperation. Speakers from the
Ministry of Energy, SONATRACH, and SONELGAZ highlighted the
unique position of Algeria, endowed with vast solar and wind
potential, as well as a long history as a reliable energy
supplier to Europe and beyond. Their remarks reflected a dual
commitment: ensuring domestic energy security while
positioning Algeria as a central player in the emerging
regional and global hydrogen economy.
A key theme was Algeria’s clear policy framework. The National
Hydrogen Strategy, as explained by Dr. Miloud Medjelled, Chair
of the National Committee for the Development of the National
Hydrogen Strategy at the Ministry of Energy, Mines and
Renewable Energies, is structured around the gradual
integration of green hydrogen into the energy mix, supported
by both domestic consumption targets and export ambitions.
This is not only about diversifying away from hydrocarbons but
also about transforming Algeria into a hub for renewable
innovation. Panelists noted that hydrogen development will be
built on existing energy infrastructures, such as SONATRACH’s
pipelines and SONELGAZ’s distribution networks, ensuring a
smoother transition.
The reflection also revealed the importance of partnerships.
Algeria cannot achieve its goals in isolation; its ability to
contribute to the decarbonisation of global economies rests on
fostering multilateral collaborations. Mr. Hakim Zebiri,
Deputy Director of Multilateral Relations at the Ministry of
Energy, Mines and Renewable Energies, underscored the role of
diplomacy, while Mr. Ali Zatout, Strategy Director at
SONELGAZ, and Mr. Youcef Khanfar, Central Director of Green
and Renewable Energies at SONATRACH, detailed ongoing pilot
projects, industrial integration efforts, and the ambition to
tie national projects to international markets. Collectively,
these insights illustrated Algeria’s desire not only to secure
investments and technology transfer but also to participate in
shaping global hydrogen standards.
Beyond the technical and strategic frameworks, what stood out
was the country’s narrative of responsibility. The panel
acknowledged the urgency of climate change and Algeria’s role
as both a traditional energy supplier and a future green
energy leader. By combining reliability with innovation,
Algeria seeks to preserve its reputation as a trusted partner
while embracing a sustainable future. The discussion offered
an inspiring picture of a nation balancing heritage and
transformation, and positioning itself as a strategic bridge
between Africa, Europe, and the wider world.
【Post-EXPO Initiatives】
Following Expo 2025, Algeria’s renewable energy and hydrogen
agenda should continue with four main directions.
First, concrete implementation of the National Hydrogen
Strategy is vital. Developing the legal framework that covers
the entire value chain for hydrogen development is a priority;
the main legal documents are currently being finalized. The
roadmaps and pilot projects presented at the Expo must evolve
into demonstrable facilities that integrate solar and wind
power, electrolyser technology, and distribution frameworks.
By scaling demonstration projects into full industrial
clusters, Algeria can prove its capacity to meet both domestic
and export demand.
Second, international cooperation must be expanded. The Expo
panel highlighted interest in cross-border collaboration, and
this momentum should lead to bilateral agreements with Japan,
the EU, and other regions investing heavily in hydrogen. Such
agreements could cover joint research, financing, and
technology transfer. Positioning Algeria within multilateral
hydrogen initiatives will also reinforce its role in shaping
global standards and ensuring that African perspectives are
included in international frameworks.
Third, Algeria is focusing on social and economic integration.
Beyond infrastructure, hydrogen development must create local
jobs, stimulate manufacturing industries, and offer training
for new energy professions. Partnerships with universities and
vocational centres will ensure capacity building for the next
generation. In parallel, engaging communities in renewable
projects can enhance public trust and foster local ownership
of the transition.
Forth, the various funding mechanisms and incentive measures
for the development of the hydrogen sector were highlighted,
including examples such as public-private partnerships, green
funds, and government subsidies,
Ultimately, Expo 2025 has served as a platform for Algeria to
present its ambitions. The post-Expo phase must be
characterised by action: transforming policy into projects,
projects into industries, and industries into sustainable
prosperity. Through continuity, cooperation, and inclusive
growth, Algeria can consolidate its role as a regional energy
hub and a global partner in renewable and hydrogen economies.
Cast
Moderator
Fodil Chérif Abdelkader
Director of Environment and Sustainable Development, SONATRACH
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Speakers
Bougandoura Abdellah
Commissioner General, Algeria Pavilion, Osaka-Kansai Expo
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MILOUD MEDJELLED
President of the Committee responsible for the National Green Hydrogen Strategy /Ministry of Energy, Mines and Renewable Energies
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ALI ZATOUT
Director of Strategy, Executive Directorate for Foresight, Strategy, and Information Systems/ SONELGAZ
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YOUCEF KHANFAR
Central Director of green and renewable energies at SONATRACH
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HAKIM ZEBIRI
Deputy Director of Multilateral Relations / Ministry of Energy, Mines and Renewable Energies
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The Future of Earth and Biodiversity Week
Algeria’s Strategy on Renewable Energies and Hydrogen
Algeria presents its vision for energy transition and highlights the key pillars of the national hydrogen strategy, as well as the initiatives undertaken by key stakeholders such as SONATRACH and SONELGAZ in the fields of industrial development, integration into the national energy system, and positioning on the international stage. Furthermore, this event will provide a platform for dialogue on international cooperation and Algeria’s integration into the global hydrogen economy, thereby reinforcing the country’s role as a regional energy hub and a strategic partner in the field of renewable and sustainable energies.
-
2025.09.17[Wed]
10:30～12:30
(Venue Open 10:00)
- Theme Weeks Studio
OTHER PROGRAM
The Future of Earth and Biodiversity Week
