Algerian Radio
The President of the International Gas Union (IGU), Andrea Stegher, stated on Monday in Oran that Algeria is a leader in the field of liquefied natural gas (LNG).
In his speech during the first strategic session of the 8th symposium of the Algerian Gas Industry Association, held under the theme "Natural Gas and Hydrogen: Innovation at the Service of a Sustainable Industry," Mr. Stegher explained that "gas experts in Algeria have long understood that gas is not just an energy source, but a means to serve the people and an essential element in achieving true sustainability."
He emphasized that the role of the gas industry remains central on several levels, whether meeting consumers' current needs or guaranteeing energy access for future generations. He noted that this vision is now shared by both industry players and consumers, who consider gas a viable energy option.
He also addressed the growth in energy demand driven by artificial intelligence and data centers, stating that "if we want to meet this growing demand while reducing carbon intensity, gas remains an indispensable solution in the short term, alongside renewable energies."
The President of the International Gas Union called for continued investments in this field and the development of infrastructure at the right time and required scale.
He further stressed that gas remains a safe and reliable energy source, as well as a key element in various future energy scenarios. In this regard, he praised Algeria’s experience, which is built on long-term partnerships that have strengthened trust and innovation within the sector.
He highlighted that innovation remains at the heart of the gas industry through continuous technological advancements—both in traditional systems and low-emission solutions—as well as the growing use of digitalization and artificial intelligence to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.
Mr. Stegher also indicated that sharing knowledge and best practices is one of the pillars of the International Gas Union's work, specifying that innovation will take center stage at the Union’s next conference (GRC 2027), scheduled for next year in Budapest, Hungary.
Moreover, he commended the role played by Algeria and the Algerian Gas Industry Association in developing the gas industry at the regional level, noting that the infrastructure built over the decades constitutes a strategic asset for the future.
He concluded by stating: "Within the International Gas Union, we represent a community of engineers, operators, entrepreneurs, and innovators, united by a common goal: to achieve a responsible, sustainable, and affordable energy transition." He added that global energy growth requires investments, political support for innovation, and concrete climate actions.
It is worth noting that the 8th symposium of the Algerian Gas Industry Association, taking place over two days, brings together more than 700 participants. These include energy sector experts and stakeholders, representatives of international companies and national institutions, as well as subsidiaries of the Sonatrach and Sonelgaz groups.
