Representatives from Algeria, Tunisia, and three European countries—Austria, Italy, and Germany—have signed a landmark agreement to develop a hydrogen pipeline connecting North Africa to southern Europe. The pipeline, spanning over 3,500 kilometers across the Mediterranean, is expected to transport more than 163 terawatt hours (TWh) of hydrogen annually, with 55 TWh destined for Germany.
The agreement, signed during a meeting in Rome, also involved Switzerland and the European Commission. The project aims to repurpose up to two-thirds of Europe’s natural gas pipelines to transport hydrogen, creating a critical energy corridor from Sicily to Bavaria. The initiative builds on existing hydrogen infrastructure projects designated as “Projects of Common Interest” within the European Union.
For North African nations, this project marks a significant step in leveraging their vast renewable energy resources. Tunisia has already signed ten agreements for hydrogen infrastructure projects, while Algeria has launched a large-scale hydrogen production initiative in partnership with European companies.
German economy ministry official Philip Nimmermann emphasized the importance of Africa’s renewable energy potential, calling the corridor “one of the largest and most significant renewable energy projects of our time.” He highlighted the mutual benefits, noting that German companies could help Algeria and Tunisia diversify their economies and create sustainable jobs.
This collaboration aims to position North Africa as a central hub in Europe’s decarbonization strategy while addressing global energy security. The next steps include finalizing the pipeline’s route through North Africa and establishing a value chain that aligns with local sustainability and development needs.
The agreement underscores Africa’s growing role in global clean energy solutions, showcasing its potential to contribute to international energy security while fostering economic growth within the continent.