Algeria has begun building a 1,210-kilometer section of the long-planned Trans-Saharan Gas Pipe, reviving a decades-old route meant to carry Nigerian and regional gas to Europe.
Sonatrach will build the Algerian stretch across the Sahara and connect it in the Aoulef region to Algeria’s existing pipeline network that already feeds European customers.
Europe is the project’s target market as Algeria seeks to raise gas flows beyond its current supplies to Spain, Italy and France to meet demand.
Is the Trans-Saharan pipeline a vital energy solution or a multi-billion dollar security gamble?
Is Europe swapping its dependency on Russia for an even greater risk in the volatile Sahel?
Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline: $13 Billion Project Launches in 2026 to Transform Africa-Europe Gas Flows
Overview
The Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline (TSGP) project officially began construction on June 4, 2026, in Algeria’s Adrar province, marking the start of a major energy initiative to transport natural gas across West and North Africa. This vast network will connect Nigeria, Niger, and Algeria, with Niger set to start building its 720-kilometer section in early 2027. The TSGP aims to boost regional cooperation and energy security, positioning itself as a key route for African gas to reach Europe as the EU seeks alternatives to Russian supplies. The project highlights strong collaboration and phased development among the involved countries.