According to a report by BP Statistical Review of Energy, Algeria has been the world’s eighth-largest natural gas producer in 2011. By 2019, however, the entire production will be used to meet local demand with little left for exports.
The government plans to introduce a new hydrocarbons bill in parliament to encourage the exploration of unconventional gas and oil resources, reports AFP.
Currently, hydrocarbons mark over 90% of Algeria’s exports, which is another reason for the country to consider shale gas development to increase production.
Meanwhile, Algerian hydrocarbons company Sonatrach, which has drilled its first shale gas well in the Ahnet basin near Tamanrasset, recently discovered a new property in the southeast near Illizi and plans to begin offshore exploration in 2014.
The company has signed agreements with Shell, Eni and Talisman for shale gas development.
