Construction Begins on Algeria's Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline Section

One of Africa's most ambitious pipeline projects is entering a new phase as developers move forward on a critical segment of the planned export route.

(P&GJ) — Algeria has officially launched construction of its portion of the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP), advancing a long-planned project designed to transport Nigerian natural gas through Niger and Algeria to export markets in Europe.

Algerian Energy Minister Mohamed Arkab joined energy officials from Nigeria and Niger at a ceremony in Adrar Province to mark the start of construction on the Algerian segment of the pipeline.

According to Algeria's Ministry of Energy, the pipeline route will extend from the Algeria-Niger border to Hassi R'Mel, the country's largest natural gas hub. The line will follow the Trans-Saharan Road corridor and connect with Algeria's existing gas transmission and export infrastructure.

Once completed, the TSGP is expected to establish a new export route for African natural gas, linking production in Nigeria with pipeline systems and export facilities in Algeria that serve European markets.

The project is being jointly developed by Algeria's Sonatrach, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) and Niger's SONIDEP. Developers have said the pipeline will strengthen regional energy integration while expanding market access for natural gas resources across West and North Africa.

The Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline is one of Africa's largest proposed energy infrastructure projects and has long been identified as a strategic component of the New Partnership for Africa's Development (NEPAD) initiative.