accord entre Sonatrach et le partenaire américain, Baker Hughes, pour diversifier la production
Sonatrach and Baker Hughes Expand Partnership to Enhance African Market Presence
Introduction
On a recent Sunday, Sonatrach, Algeria’s national oil and gas company, announced an agreement with American partner Baker Hughes to diversify the production of their subsidiary, Algesco. This subsidiary focuses on the repair and maintenance of turbines and compressors for industrial vehicles. The initiative aims to expand their market footprint into Africa.
Strategic Importance of the Agreement
Rachid Hachichi, Sonatrach’s CEO, emphasized the necessity of diversifying Algesco’s production to better integrate into the African markets. During an inspection of the Algesco facility in Boufarik, he highlighted that the company serves as an essential tool for both Sonatrach and Sonelgaz, Algeria’s state electricity and gas company. He detailed plans for a special development initiative aimed at giving Algesco an international profile, which would enable participation in African markets. Currently, Algesco operates regionally, servicing countries like Tunisia and Egypt.
Baker Hughes CEO Lorenzo Simonelli expressed enthusiasm for strengthening the collaborative relationship between Algeria and the United States, particularly in the energy sector. The partnership aims to align with directives from Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, who has encouraged both Sonelgaz and Sonatrach to broaden their reach into Africa.
Opportunities for Expansion
Mourad Adjal, CEO of Sonelgaz, noted the discussions are centered around diversifying Algesco’s production capabilities. They plan on producing gas turbines with capacities of 20, 30, and 50 megawatts, which are in high demand in the African market, with inquiries already received from countries such as Burkina Faso, Niger, and Senegal. Adjal expressed optimism about entering the African market, stating that the initiative is a significant leap towards achieving this goal.
Inspection and Development Plans
The occasion allowed executives from Sonatrach, Sonelgaz, and Baker Hughes to visit various workshops at Algesco and hold meetings regarding the company’s development strategy. A Sonatrach statement confirmed that Hachichi and Simonelli reviewed the progress of the third phase of the Hassi R’Mel field enhancement project. They reiterated the importance of adhering to project timelines, as it remains strategically significant for the energy sector in Algeria.
Discussions between the companies also sought to strengthen existing cooperative ties in energy equipment manufacturing and explore new opportunities to advance their partnership. Hachichi and Simonelli also touched on revitalizing the joint venture, APAC, which specializes in industrial equipment and spare parts supporting the hydrocarbons value chain.
Partnership with Baker Hughes
Baker Hughes has been a vital partner for Sonatrach across various initiatives, including Algesco and APAC, contributing to numerous crucial energy development projects in Algeria. As one of the world’s leading energy technology companies, Baker Hughes’s involvement strengthens Sonatrach’s operational capabilities and bolsters Algeria’s energy sector.
Conclusion
The agreement between Sonatrach and Baker Hughes signifies a significant step towards diversification and international integration for Algesco. With targeted development on gas turbines and commitments to the African market, Sonatrach is positioning itself strategically to meet demand in a region with growing energy requirements. As this partnership evolves, it can be expected to enhance both countries’ energy cooperation and facilitate wider outreach across Africa.
