Libya and Algeria eye expanding technical energy cooperation in refinery, pipeline and solar projects

Libya’s Ministry of Oil and Gas met on December 1 with a delegation from Algeria’s state-owned energy group Sonatrach to discuss expanded cooperation in refinery maintenance, pipeline studies, solar-energy development and capacity-building programmes for Libyan technical staff, according to an official ministry statement.

The meeting also reviewed progress under the recently signed agreement between Libya’s Petroleum Research Centre and specialised Algerian laboratories. Officials said the arrangement includes technical assistance, laboratory-standard harmonisation and joint diagnostic work, with both sides exploring options for co-funded research programmes.

Discussions covered refinery rehabilitation priorities at Zawiya, Ras Lanuf and Tobruk, which the Libyan government has identified as strategic objectives, though no operational timelines or financing packages for upgrades have been approved. The ministry noted that cooperation with Sonatrach could help support feasibility assessments.

The delegations examined Sonatrach’s current activities in the Ghadames Basin, where the company is conducting work under existing exploration agreements. Sonatrach previously suspended operations in Libya in 2011–12 during the conflict and has pursued a phased return since 2021, according to ministry and company statements.

Pipeline linkages and potential power-sector interconnection were discussed as long-term areas of cooperation, rather than active projects, with both governments highlighting opportunities for technical exchanges and field visits. Officials said the objective is to strengthen operational integration between the two energy sectors.

Libya’s hydrocarbon output has fluctuated between 1.1mn–1.2mn bpd in recent months, according to OPEC data, making upstream stability and refinery performance central to revenue generation. Algeria’s Sonatrach, one of Africa’s largest oil and gas producers, operates major upstream, pipeline and petrochemical assets across North Africa and the Sahel.

Both parties said the meeting reaffirmed their intention to maintain regular technical engagement to support project development and sector expansion.