The Algerian region of Tizi-Ouzou has made significant strides in connecting to electricity and gas networks since 2012. However, recent reports from local authorities have been disputed by regional officials. During a session of the regional assembly on December 18-19, concerns were raised about the accuracy of reported connection rates. The assembly's president, Youcef Aouchiche, highlighted the disparity between official figures and the reality on the ground.
According to the regional energy directorate and local authorities, Tizi-Ouzou's connection rate to natural gas stands at 85%, while electricity connection rates are reported at 98%. Nevertheless, these numbers have been contested by local officials, who claim that many residents still lack access to these essential services. Aouchiche emphasized the need to address the issue, particularly in three communes not initially included in the program: Zekri, Aït Chafaâ, and Akerou.
The region's electricity connection rate has seen improvement, rising from 92.29% in 1999 to 98.41% in 2018. Despite this progress, challenges persist. Approximately 10,000 households remain unconnected, with an additional 10,000 awaiting connection. This totals 20,000 households without access to electricity, a situation deemed unacceptable by regional officials. They are calling for a special electrification program to address this issue.
Natural gas connections have seen significant expansion, with the rate increasing from 9.97% in 1999 to 85% in 2018. A total of 291,600 households are now connected to the gas network, with 64 out of 67 communes benefiting from the service. The regional energy directorate expects the connection rate to reach 96% once ongoing programs are completed. This puts Tizi-Ouzou ahead of the national average of 57% as of 2017.
The region has received substantial funding for gas and electricity projects. A total of 46.5 billion Algerian dinars has been allocated for gas connections, benefiting 278,149 households. The state has contributed 75% of the funding, with Sonelgaz covering 25%, and beneficiaries contributing a mere 10,000 dinars. For electricity, two programs worth 4.3 billion dinars have been launched to connect 10,042 households.
Several factors have hindered the progress of these projects, including citizen opposition, financing issues, and contract terminations due to economic difficulties. The crisis has impacted the payment of construction companies, leading to delays in project completion. Local officials stress the need for cooperation and support to overcome these challenges and ensure that all residents have access to essential services.
To address the growing demand for electricity, particularly during peak seasons, the regional authorities are investing in infrastructure development. Nine new high- and very high-tension transformer stations are being built across nine communes, accompanied by new high-tension lines, transformers, and emergency lines. These initiatives aim to improve the reliability and accessibility of electricity for residents in Tizi-Ouzou.
Key points
- Tizi-Ouzou's reported connection rates for electricity and gas have been disputed by local officials, who claim that many residents still lack access to these services.
- The region faces challenges in completing projects due to citizen opposition, financing issues, and contract terminations.
- Authorities are investing in infrastructure development to address growing electricity demand and improve service accessibility.
