Algeria signs UN deal to monitor methane leaks

Algeria and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) signed a cooperation agreement on Tuesday to monitor methane leaks at Sonatrach facilities, according to Awras.

The agreement provides for a fixed system that detects methane leaks and monitors them continuously at Sonatrach sites. The system will follow international standards, including the Oil and Gas Methane Partnership 2.0 (OGMP 2.0).

The first part covers installing and running this system, which aims to improve early detection of leaks and provide accurate emissions data. Such data will support measures to reduce leaks.

Green hydrogen study

The second part is a technical and economic feasibility study on green hydrogen, which checks whether a project is practical and affordable. It will assess technology options, infrastructure needs and scenarios for gradually adding hydrogen to Sonatrach's value chain and industrial activities.

UNDP will implement the project directly, in coordination with Sonatrach, its main technical beneficiary. The project aims to transfer technology and build national skills in emissions monitoring and low-carbon energy solutions.

The document was signed on the sidelines of a workshop on climate finance and carbon markets, organised by the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and Sonatrach.

The secretary general of the Ministry of Hydrocarbons and the chief executive of Sonatrach attended the signing. The heads of the Hydrocarbons Regulation Authority and the National Agency for the Valorisation of Hydrocarbon Resources also attended.

Representatives of the Ministry of Energy and Renewable Energies and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, National Community Abroad and African Affairs took part. The ambassador of the United Kingdom was also present, along with representatives of other bodies, sectors and international partners.