The 14th edition of the Salon and Conference of Energy and Hydrogen for Africa and the Mediterranean Basin (NAPEC-2026) concluded in Oran, Algeria, with sessions on sustainable energy, security of supply, decarbonization, hydrogen, energy efficiency, and modern technologies. The conference aimed to develop an approach based on "energy addition," combining new energy sources with the continued development of conventional resources while ensuring energy security, competitiveness, and reduced emissions. The event brought together experts and industry leaders to discuss the future of energy in Africa and the Mediterranean region.
On the sidelines of NAPEC 2026, two agreements were signed between the Algerian National Agency for the Valorization of Hydrocarbon Resources (ALNAFT) and the Vietnam Oil and Gas Exploration Production Corporation (PVEP). The agreements focus on improving hydrocarbon recovery in the Rhourde El-Baguel and Bir El-Aïssa fields in southeastern Algeria. The Vietnamese ambassador to Algeria, Vu Duy Long, described the agreements as a concrete step in strengthening cooperation between Vietnamese and Algerian companies in the hydrocarbon sector.
The agreements, which have a duration of 12 months each, aim to optimize the exploitation of discovered hydrocarbon resources while improving recovery rates. They involve evaluating technical possibilities to increase hydrocarbon recovery in the two fields through data analysis and reservoir studies. This cooperation is seen as a significant development in the energy sector, with Algeria being an important partner for Vietnam in Africa.
In a separate development, the Algerian company, Société algérienne de dessalement de l’eau, a subsidiary of Sonatrach, has highlighted the strategic importance of seawater desalination in enhancing national water security and supporting the industrial sector, particularly petrochemicals. The company's assistant president-director general, Mouloud Hachlaf, stated that seawater desalination plants now supply water to major industrial hubs.
Algeria has approved a second complementary program for the construction of large seawater desalination plants, as announced by President Abdelmadjid Tebboune. The program's first phase, covering the wilayas of Tlemcen, Mostaganem, and Chlef, is being implemented by national companies. Hachlaf reported that the project is progressing rapidly, with construction expected to start soon.
The NAPEC 2026 conference also focused on the future of the energy mix, supply security, decarbonization, hydrogen, and new technologies. Participants examined opportunities for strengthening partnerships and investments, highlighting Algeria's regional role in energy security and its connection between Africa and European markets.
The conference provided a platform for experts to discuss the challenges and opportunities in the energy sector, with a focus on sustainable and environmentally friendly solutions. The event concluded with a renewed commitment to cooperation and investment in the energy sector, both within Algeria and across the region.
Key points
- Algeria's NAPEC 2026 conference emphasizes the importance of "energy addition" in ensuring energy security and competitiveness.
- The conference highlights Algeria's role as a key player in regional energy security and cooperation.
- Seawater desalination is recognized as a strategic tool for enhancing national water security and supporting industrial development.
