Algeria has announced a strategic initiative to achieve self-sufficiency in seawater desalination by producing reverse osmosis membranes domestically. This significant move aims to reduce import costs and enhance the country’s water security.

The project, spearheaded by the Algerian Energy Company (AEC), a subsidiary of Sonatrach, was unveiled by Mohamed Arkab, Algeria’s Minister of Energy and Mines, during a parliamentary session dedicated to seawater desalination. AEC has partnered with international entities, including the German firm Port Energy Logistic (PEL), to facilitate the local manufacturing of these crucial semi-permeable membranes.

Reverse osmosis membranes play a vital role in treating seawater by separating salt from water. This process not only conserves energy but also protects the environment. Currently, Algeria relies on imported membranes for its 14 desalination plants. The shift to local production is expected to make these materials more accessible and significantly reduce the country's import expenses.

This initiative aligns with AEC’s ongoing efforts to bolster water security and adheres to public authorities’ directives to enhance the desalination sector. The local production of desalination membranes is anticipated to stimulate the domestic industry, create employment opportunities, and support the construction of additional desalination plants. This development is crucial for Algeria, which aims to increase the contribution of seawater desalination to its drinking water supply from the current 42% to 60% by 2030.