The Southern Hydrogen Corridor: Advancing Energy Security and Green Growth Between North Africa and Europe

The Southern Hydrogen Corridor project, a transformative initiative connecting North Africa with Europe, achieved a significant milestone, with its first ministerial meeting. Energy ministers and high-level officials from six countries, including Algeria and Tunisia, gathered in Rome to advance the project, which aims to link hydrogen production sites in North Africa to the European Union.

Joint Declaration Signed to Propel Project

The meeting concluded with the signing of a Joint Declaration of Political Intent, underscoring the participants’ commitment to the development of the hydrogen corridor. This initiative seeks to harness the renewable energy potential of Algeria and Tunisia, particularly for green hydrogen production, while bolstering energy security between North Africa and the EU.

The meeting was attended by prominent officials, including:

• Mohamed Araqab, Algerian Minister of Energy
• Antonio Tajani, Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs
• Gilberto Piccitto Fratan, Italian Minister of Environment and Energy Security
• Philipp Niemermann, German Minister of Economy and Climate Protection

Representatives from Austria’s Ministry of Climate Action, the Tunisian Ambassador to Italy, and observers from the European Union Commission and Switzerland were also present.

Advancing Green Hydrogen and Regional Cooperation

The Southern Hydrogen Corridor will feature a 3,300-kilometer hydrogen pipeline connecting Algeria, Tunisia, and Europe, with major European operators spearheading the project. Once operational in 2030, the corridor is expected to deliver over 4 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually to the EU, supplying a significant portion of Europe’s hydrogen demand.

The Joint Declaration emphasized the following priorities:

• Accelerating the development of hydrogen plants and associated infrastructure
• Attracting investments to stimulate job creation and innovation
• Supporting the energy transition and achieving global climate goals

The agreement highlights Algeria’s and Tunisia’s renewable energy potential, positioning Algeria as a major player in the green hydrogen sector.

A Critical Step for Europe’s Energy Security

The Southern Hydrogen Corridor is set to become a cornerstone of Europe’s hydrogen transmission network, contributing to the EU’s renewable energy targets and strengthening energy security. With its substantial import capacity, the project will reduce reliance on fossil fuels and foster green growth in North Africa and Europe.

This ministerial meeting marks a pivotal step toward realizing the vision of a sustainable and interconnected energy future, with ongoing collaboration expected to drive the project forward.