Scenarios for Diversification of EU Natural Gas Supplies from Algeria

The Russian-Ukrainian war contributed to significant turbulence in the European energy market. The existing energy relations with Russia have been almost destroyed. The European Union found itself in a difficult situation and quickly began to look for ways to replace Russian gas. Naturally, Algeria was found on the list of countries of special European interests. Rich oil and gas potential and proximity to the European energy market were the main reasons to strengthen energy relations with Algeria after February 24, 2022. This article examines how Algeria’s gas policy towards the EU has changed since the start of the Russian-Ukrainian war and the main scenarios for its implementation in the future. The following hypotheses are adopted in the article: after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Algeria and the EU changed their approach to gas policy by trying to resuscitate long-forgotten projects, such as the Trans-Saharan gas pipeline (NIGAL) or Galsi, and to increase imports. The chances of building the Galsi pipeline are high. The main tools of Algeria’s gas policy are political and economic instruments. Algeria’s gas policy has a significant impact on the EU’s energy security. The main research methods used are synthesis and analysis, comparison, statistical analysis, and forecasting approach.