Algeria set to open solar panel factory

subscribe

Oil and gas producer Algeria is to build a plant to manufacture solar panels as part of a plan to draw 5 percent of its electricity from renewable energy by 2015, state media reported.

Most of Algeria lies in the Sahara desert, a region that has attracted interest from major European companies that want to tap into its huge solar power potential and its proximity to energy-hungry markets in Europe.

Algeria's state-owned utility Sonelgaz will invest $100 million in the plant and will launch a bidding round for contractors by the end of this year, Algeria's official APS news agency quoted Sonelgaz CEO Noureddine Bouterfa as saying.

The agency said the factory, which is scheduled to open in 2012, will each year produce photovoltaic cells with a generating capacity of 50 megawatts, equivalent to about one tenth the capacity of a small nuclear power plant.

A consortium of 12 companies including Siemens, E.ON and Deutsche Bank is planning a 400 billion euro (US$597.3 billion) project, known as Desertec, to generate solar power in North Africa and export it to Europe.

Algerian Energy and Mines Minister Chakib Khelil has expressed reservations about the project, saying earlier this year: "We don't want foreign companies exploiting solar energy from our land."

Neighboring Morocco this month announced a $9 billion solar power project of its own which is slated to produce 2,000 megawatts of electricity by 2020. Officials though have released few details of how the project will be funded.

Related News

power-outages-mitigate-wildfire-risks

Power Outages to Mitigate Wildfire Risks

COLORADO - Colorado, known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor recreation, has implemented proactive measures to reduce the risk of wildfires by strategically shutting off power in high-risk areas. This approach, while disruptive, aims to safeguard communities, protect natural resources, and mitigate the devastating impacts of wildfires that have become increasingly prevalent in the region.

The decision to initiate power outages as a preventative measure against wildfires underscores Colorado's commitment to proactive fire management and public safety. With climate change contributing to hotter and drier conditions, the state faces heightened wildfire risks, necessitating innovative strategies to minimize ignition sources and…

READ MORE
no nuclear for quebec

'For now, we're not touching it': Quebec closes door on nuclear power

READ MORE

Chief Peter Collins, Fort William First Nation

Ontario First Nations urge government to intervene in 'urgently needed' electricity line

READ MORE

Ontario energy minister asks for early report exploring a halt to natural gas power generation

READ MORE

andrew cuomo

New York State Moratorium on Utility Disconnections During Emergencies

READ MORE