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
- 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
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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
- * Programme times and content are subject to change. Any changes will be announced on this website and via the ticket booking system.
- * The schedule is subject to change depending on the organiser's circumstances.
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The Future of Earth and Biodiversity Week
