The BRN photovoltaic system represents the first step towards a real change in Algeria's energy mix
The President General Manager of the Algerian state company Sonatrach, Abdelmoumem Ould Kaddour, and the CEO of Eni, Claudio Descalzi, today inaugurated a solar energy plant from 10 MW in Bir Rebaa North (BRN) in Algeria. The plant, operated jointly by Eni and Sonatrach through the GSA (Groupement Sonatrach-Agip), will supply green energy to the oil field, thus contributing to the decarbonisation of the Algerian energy system.
During the opening ceremony, in order to further strengthen their partnership in the renewable energy sector, Eni and Sonatrach signed an agreement to carry out the construction of an advanced research and development laboratory on the BRN site in order to test solar technologies and hybrids in a desert environment.
The two companies also signed an agreement to extend the scope of their cooperation through the creation of a joint venture entirely dedicated to the renewable energy sector in Algeria. The jv will have the purpose to install and manage solar energy production plants not only in the production sites of SONATRACH and Eni, but also in other realities. The BRN photovoltaic system is proof that renewable energy projects can provide efficient support for oil and gas activities and at the same time contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
These initiatives represent an integral part of the strategy that Eni is developing in every country in which it operates, and which aims to change the energy mix of its activities by replacing energy from fossil fuels with that from renewable sources, also supplying green energy to national networks.
Eni's CEO Claudio Descalzi said: "This represents a further step towards a strategic expansion of renewable energy activities in Algeria, starting with this plant as an example of solar technologies. This structure is proof of the commitment that Eni has taken in developing a decarbonisation plan for the long-term sustainability of its business, based on the reduction of the carbon impact through the development of renewable energy projects. Furthermore, the BRN project shows how strong and close is the spirit of collaboration between Eni and Sonatrach ".
Eni is strongly committed to the development of renewable energy projects in all the countries in which it operates. These represent key elements in the process of energy transition towards a low carbon emissions scenario. Eni is developing solar energy research projects with centers of international excellence and investing heavily in technologies that can have greater efficiency and flexibility, so that they can be used in a variety of applications.
Eni is present in Algeria from the 1981 and currently is operator of 32 mining permits. With an equity production of around 90.000 barrels of oil equivalent per day, Eni stands as the most important international company operating in the country.