Algeria’s Energy Chief Presents Ambitious Green Hydrogen Export Plan to Europe in Berlin
Nourredine Doudi, the Chief Executive Officer of Algeria’s energy giant Sonatrach, is leading a high-level delegation in Berlin today to present significant advancements on two landmark energy initiatives: the ‘Hydrogen Alliance from Algeria to Europe’ (ALTEH2A) and the broader ‘Southern Hydrogen Corridor’.
A Strategic Partnership for Clean Energy
These ambitious projects represent a powerful international consortium. Sonatrach and its national partner, Sonelgaz, are collaborating with European energy leaders, including Germany’s VNG AG, Italy’s SNAM and Sea Corridor, and Austria’s Verbund Green Hydrogen. The core objective is as clear as it is ambitious: to harness Algeria’s immense potential for green hydrogen production and establish a reliable export route to meet European energy demands.
Berlin Meeting Charts the Course Forward
The high-stakes meeting in the German capital served as a critical progress review. Delegates examined the latest developments and engaged in substantive discussions on the essential conditions required to ensure the success of this strategic cross-border cooperation. The talks underscore a shared recognition that the future of energy is not just about supply, but about sustainable and collaborative partnerships.
Leveraging Natural Advantages for a Green Future
So, what makes Algeria such a pivotal player in this emerging market? The ALTEH2A alliance is strategically designed to capitalize on the country’s vast, untapped renewable energy resources. By exploring opportunities for large-scale green hydrogen production, the initiative aims to fuel the European market via the Southern Corridor. This isn’t just about energy transfer; it’s about creating new, durable pathways for sustainable economic growth and deepening international ties.
European Commission Endorsement and Political Backing
The significance of these endeavors has been firmly acknowledged at the highest levels of European governance. The European Commission has officially designated the projects within the Southern Hydrogen Corridor framework as Projects of Common Interest (PCI). This status, effective from January 2025, confirms their strategic importance for the continent’s cross-border energy infrastructure and often facilitates faster permitting and regulatory support.
This institutional backing is matched by strong political will. The governments of Algeria, Tunisia, Italy, Austria, and Germany have collectively renewed their commitment, formalizing their support through a signed declaration. This political momentum was further solidified in October 2024 with the signing of a comprehensive memorandum of understanding between all corporate partners.
From Agreement to Action: The Path to Feasibility
That memorandum paved the way for the current phase: joint implementation studies spanning the entire hydrogen value chain. These critical studies will assess the technical and commercial viability of an integrated project to produce green hydrogen in Algeria and transport it to European offtakers. The question is no longer *if* it can be done, but *how* it will be accomplished most efficiently and profitably.
A Historic Opportunity for Energy Transition
For Sonatrach, a company with a long history in traditional energy, the development of an integrated hydrogen sector represents a historic pivot. It is an opportunity to fundamentally strengthen energy cooperation between North Africa and Europe while making a substantial contribution to the global clean energy transition. This initiative positions Algeria not just as an energy exporter, but as a key partner in building a sustainable future.
Source: Adapted from original reporting on Sonatrach’s Berlin delegation.