Algeria is exploring the use of nuclear energy to generate electricity and desalinate seawater, with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) supporting the country’s assessment of small modular reactors (SMRs).
The development was announced by IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi following a meeting with Algeria’s Minister of Energy and Renewable Energy, Mourad Adjal, on the sidelines of the IAEA’s 70th General Conference in Vienna, Austria, taking place from September 14 to 18.
“Algeria is exploring the possibilities offered by nuclear energy with the support of the IAEA,” Grossi said in a post on X, referring to a joint agreement focused on the potential use of SMRs for electricity generation and seawater desalination.
Algeria Studies Small Modular Reactors
SMRs are compact nuclear reactors designed to generate electricity on a smaller scale than conventional large nuclear power plants. Their potential application in desalination could also provide an alternative source of energy for producing drinking water from seawater.
For Algeria, the technology is being examined against growing demand for both electricity and freshwater. The country has traditionally relied heavily on natural gas for electricity generation, while seawater desalination has become increasingly important as Algeria expands its water infrastructure.
The Ministry of Energy and Renewable Energy said Adjal’s participation in the Vienna conference forms part of Algeria’s efforts to strengthen cooperation with the IAEA through technical assistance, training, expertise and knowledge transfer. It also provides an opportunity to identify new areas of partnership involving the peaceful applications of nuclear technology.
Algeria’s Role in the IAEA Rays of Hope Program
The discussions in Vienna also covered Algeria’s role in the IAEA’s Rays of Hope initiative, which supports countries in expanding access to cancer diagnosis and treatment, including radiation therapy and medical imaging.
Grossi described Algeria as an important regional partner in the program because of its oncology training capabilities. Algeria hosts a center of excellence that helps train cancer-care professionals from across Africa.
The Rays of Hope initiative was launched by the IAEA in 2022 to help low- and middle-income countries develop and strengthen cancer treatment services.
Nuclear Energy Could Support Algeria’s Growing Energy and Water Needs
Algeria’s interest in SMRs comes as the country faces rising demand for electricity and drinking water.
The government has expanded seawater desalination capacity, with five new desalination plants scheduled to be commissioned by 2025, while electricity consumption is expected to continue increasing as investment expands across industrial and agricultural sectors.
Exploring nuclear-powered electricity and desalination therefore gives Algeria another potential option for meeting long-term energy and water requirements while reducing the pressure on natural gas resources.
No final decision on deploying SMRs has been announced. The current cooperation with the IAEA concerns exploring the technology and developing expertise around its potential peaceful applications.
Sami B. is the founder and editor of Algeria News Gate, an independent English-language platform covering Algeria’s political, economic, and business developments. Based in Europe, he reports on official announcements, economic trends, and international relations involving Algeria.