Algerian state-owned energy company SONATRACH has launched construction of its part of the Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP), advancing a long-standing project aimed at transporting Nigerian natural gas to European markets, noted a statement by the company.

The TSGP is jointly developed by SONATRACH, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC), and Niger’s SONIDEP. The project is expected to establish a new export corridor for African natural gas, linking Nigeria, Niger, and Algeria before connecting to existing export infrastructure serving international markets, particularly Europe.

The pipeline will run along the Trans-Saharan Road corridor from the Algerian-Nigerien border to Algeria’s National Gas Dispatching Center (CNDG) in Hassi R’Mel gas hub, where it will connect to the country’s national gas transportation network and export facilities. The broader project is designed to span about 4,128 kilometers (km) and transport nearly 20 to 30 billion cubic meters (bcm) of natural gas annually once completed.

According to SONATRACH, the route has been optimized to leverage existing infrastructure, including road networks and gas pipelines, thereby leveraging the logistical and technical synergies offered by the existing facilities.

The company described the project as a key driver for strengthening regional integration, the valorization of African energy resources, and promoting the continent’s sustainable economic development.