The Impact of the Development of Shale Gas on the Algerian Economy in the Presence of Uncertainties on Exports

For Algeria the energy has always been a convenience with a double importance: must ensure the energy security of the country on the very long term and be a main source for the financing of its economic and social development. Algeria meets the conditions for the shale gas production development and our country is already a major gas exporter, and local demand is now increasing to the point that conventional gas exports are likely to decline. Algeria relies heavily on gas export revenues (90% of which come from hydrocarbon production). These additional gas reserves would therefore enable exports to continue to support the country's development. This paper aims the situation within the Algerian shale gas field to illustrate the various potential benefits and risks also. To better assess the situation and consider the best prospects, we will review the evolution of this sector in terms of energy supply and identify the challenges that must be overcome in order to ensure the country's energy security and guaranteethe financing of the economic and social development of the country, at least, throughout the transition to an economy independent of oil revenue.