Algeria ADC Plans Major Green Hydrogen and Brine Utilisation Studies

Algerias state-owned Algerian Desalination Company ADC is launching comprehensive feasibility studies targeting green hydrogen production and brine utilisation projects this year according to a senior company official. The strategic initiative positions Algeria to capitalize on its abundant renewable energy resources while addressing environmental challenges from seawater desalination.

ADC Development and Engineering Projects Director Sofiane Zmeche announced during the second National Seawater Desalination Forum that the company will conduct detailed assessments to explore green hydrogen opportunities and evaluate how existing desalination infrastructure can support hydrogen fuel development across Algeria.

The company has already made significant progress with brine management through a successful pilot project completed at the Corso desalination plant in Boumerdes Province. Technical teams analyzed the mineral composition and characteristics of brine produced during the desalination process identifying key elements for potential commercial utilization.

Building on this initial success ADC is preparing to sign a framework agreement with the National Observatory for the Environment and Sustainable Development ONEDD to establish formal collaboration on brine management and utilisation strategies. The partnership will focus on environmental aspects related to the sustainable handling of brine which is the primary byproduct of seawater desalination operations.

The next phase involves developing a pilot industrial model to evaluate commercial opportunities for brine utilisation while consultations are underway with local industrial operators to identify potential applications and markets.

ADC is simultaneously advancing Algerias second supplementary seawater desalination program which includes three major facilities in Chlef Mostaganem and Tlemcen each designed to produce 300000 cubic meters of water daily. The company is also conducting parallel studies to integrate renewable energy sources into desalination operations aligning with Algerias broader commitment to green energy transition.

The green hydrogen initiative represents a significant expansion of ADCs portfolio beyond traditional water desalination services. Algeria has set ambitious targets to produce 40 terawatt hours of hydrogen by 2040 with 10 terawatt hours designated for domestic consumption. The countrys abundant solar resources and existing energy infrastructure position it as a potential major supplier of green hydrogen to European markets.

Recent partnerships with international companies including agreements with German authorities and energy firms demonstrate growing international interest in Algerias hydrogen potential. The integration of desalination infrastructure with hydrogen production could provide crucial water supplies for electrolysis processes while simultaneously addressing brine disposal challenges through value-added utilisation.

The dual focus on green hydrogen and brine valorisation reflects Algerias strategy to maximize the economic and environmental benefits of its expanding desalination capacity. With 19 operational desalination plants currently producing over 2 million cubic meters of water daily the country generates substantial quantities of brine that could potentially be transformed from waste product to valuable industrial input.

Environmental sustainability considerations are central to both initiatives as Algeria seeks to minimize the marine ecosystem impact of brine discharge while developing clean energy alternatives to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The projects align with international climate commitments and support Algerias goal of achieving significant greenhouse gas emissions reductions by 2030.

ADC expects the feasibility studies to be completed within this year providing a foundation for potential large-scale implementation of green hydrogen production and commercial brine utilisation across Algerias coastal regions.