Renewable Energy in Algeria: Current Challenges and Reform Prospects for Achieving Sustainable Development

Abstract

This study addresses the topic of renewable energy in Algeria in terms of its concept and its economic, environmental, and social importance, in light of the state’s efforts to diversify its sources of income and gradually reduce its almost complete dependence on hydrocarbon revenues. Since 2011, Algeria has launched an ambitious national program to develop this sector, supported by a legal and institutional framework, which has led to the completion of several solar and wind energy projects in southern regions, such as the Hassi R’Mel hybrid power plant and the Adrar and Ghardaia stations.

However, this path still faces a set of technical, financial, and regulatory challenges, most notably the high costs of investment, weak infrastructure, complex bureaucratic procedures, and the continued subsidization of conventional energy prices, which reduces the competitiveness of clean energy. The study concluded that achieving a real energy transition requires comprehensive legislative and institutional reform, the strengthening of international partnerships, and the development of specialized national competencies, along with the presence of genuine political will.