Algerian imports of solar panels from China have seen a significant increase in 2024, marking a pivotal shift in the country’s energy strategy, according to the latest data from a Washington-based energy research unit.
The year 2024 was marked by the launch of several solar energy projects in Algeria as part of an ambitious program aiming to achieve a capacity of 3,000 megawatts (MW). This program, led by the national company Sonelgaz, has enabled the country to make up for delays accumulated in previous years. These initiatives have boosted imports of Chinese solar panels, reaching record levels in the last quarter of the year.
Indeed, imports surged to 0.34 gigawatts (GW) in the fourth quarter of 2024, with a notable peak in December, where purchases reached 0.20 GW. This figure represents the highest monthly level ever recorded, according to data from the research center “Ember”. In comparison, the months of February and August 2024 saw only 0.01 GW of imports each, illustrating the sudden acceleration of orders at the end of the year.
A Renewable Energy Strategy
Algeria, which still largely relies on natural gas for electricity production, has set a clear goal: to increase the share of renewable energy in its energy mix to 27% by 2030. To achieve this, the country is focusing on solar energy, a resource abundant in its territory. The installed solar capacity, which was stagnant at 0.5 GW in 2023, is expected to see significant growth thanks to new projects.
In 2024, Sonelgaz signed agreements for the construction of 20 solar plants spread across 12 wilayas (provinces), with a total capacity of 2 GW. Among these projects, five plants with a capacity of 1 GW are planned under the “Solar 1000” program, distributed across five wilayas. These installations, ranging from 50 to 300 MW in capacity, are expected to play a key role in meeting national targets.
The year 2024 was particularly active for Algeria’s solar sector. In March, the foundation stone of a 200 MW solar plant was laid, followed in April by another plant of 150 MW. Two more projects, with capacities of 220 MW and 80 MW respectively, were also launched during the same period. These developments are evidence of the government’s commitment to quickly realize its ambitions in renewable energy.
China, the world leader in solar panel production, plays a central role in this energy transition. Algerian imports of Chinese panels have been supported by the quality and competitiveness of Asian products, as well as rapid delivery times. This Sino-Algerian collaboration is expected to strengthen in the coming years as more projects come to fruition.
