Algeria's Minister of Hydrocarbons, Mohamed Arkab, has stated that natural gas will continue to play a significant role in the country's energy mix. He made this statement at the opening of the 14th edition of the Energy and Hydrogen Conference for Africa and the Mediterranean (NAPEC 2026) in Oran. Arkab highlighted the importance of natural gas as a source of flexibility, industrial valorization, and a central fuel in a more efficient and cleaner energy system.
According to Arkab, natural gas will remain crucial in meeting energy needs due to its ability to support energy system flexibility and contribute to industrial development. He cited international forecasts that confirm the persistence of demand for oil and gas over the coming decades. This, he said, underscores the need for continued investment in the sector, alongside the development of clean energies and low-carbon technologies.
The Minister emphasized the importance of adopting a balanced approach to the energy mix, based on the development and complementarity of different energy sources. This approach aims to meet growing demand while improving energy efficiency and reducing emissions. Arkab stressed the strategic importance of natural gas in the global energy mix, citing its role in energy system flexibility, industrial valorization, and as a key fuel in the transition to a more efficient and less carbon-intensive energy system.
The NAPEC 2026 conference, organized from October 5 to 7 in Oran, has brought together over 450 exhibitors and 230 speakers from national and international actors in the hydrocarbons, energy, hydrogen, and transition energy sectors. The event's theme, "Towards a new approach to the energy mix: from energy transition to energy addition," reflects the need for a balanced approach to ensure energy security, affordability, and decarbonization.
The conference was attended by several high-ranking officials, including the President of the Algerian Renewal Economic Council (CREA), Kamel Moula, and the CEO of Sonatrach, Noureddine Daoudi. Other attendees included representatives from TotalEnergies, Eni, ExxonMobil, and other major energy companies. The event provides a platform for discussion and collaboration on the future of the energy sector in Africa and the Mediterranean.
The Algerian government has emphasized its commitment to a balanced energy mix, combining hydrocarbons and clean energies. This approach aims to ensure energy security, reduce emissions, and promote sustainable development. The NAPEC 2026 conference provides a forum for experts and stakeholders to share knowledge and best practices in the energy sector.
The conference has also attracted international attention, with participants from countries such as Namibia, represented by the Advisor to the President on Oil and Gas, Kornelia Shilunga. The event's focus on energy transition and addition reflects the evolving needs of the global energy landscape and the importance of collaboration and innovation in meeting these challenges.
Key points
- Algeria's Minister of Hydrocarbons, Mohamed Arkab, emphasizes natural gas importance in energy mix at NAPEC 2026.
