Construction has officially begun on Algeria’s portion of the long-planned Trans-Saharan Gas Pipeline, marking renewed momentum for a major energy infrastructure project aimed at delivering Nigerian natural gas to European markets.

The development was confirmed by Algeria’s state energy company, SONATRACH, which says work has started on the stretch connecting the Niger border to Algeria’s main gas hub at Hassi R’Mel. The hub is already a key junction in the country’s domestic and export gas network.

The pipeline is being developed through a partnership involving SONATRACH, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company, and Niger’s SONIDEP. Together, the three countries are working to establish a cross-continental energy corridor linking gas fields in Nigeria through Niger into Algeria, with the aim of supplying gas onward to Europe via existing Mediterranean export systems.

When completed, the pipeline is expected to stretch more than 4,000 kilometres across the Sahara Desert. It is designed to transport between 20 billion and 30 billion cubic metres of gas annually, making it one of the largest energy transmission projects in Africa if fully realized.

Officials involved in the project say the route has been planned to follow existing transport corridors where possible, reducing construction challenges and environmental disruption. Much of the Algerian section will run alongside established road infrastructure before connecting into the national gas network.

The project has been discussed for years but has faced repeated delays due to funding concerns and security risks across parts of the route. Despite these challenges, participating governments say renewed construction activity signals stronger coordination and a push to strengthen regional energy integration.

Beyond exports, the pipeline is also expected to generate economic activity along its path, with stakeholders highlighting potential job creation and increased energy investment in transit regions.