Sonatrach and GDF SUEZ will develop the Touat gas licence, in southwest Algeria, near the town of Adrar. After an exploration and appraisal campaign, which started in 2003, during which 7 wells were drilled, the development plan has been approved by the National Agency for the Promotion of the Hydrocarbon Resources of Algeria (ALNAFT). Work will begin in 2009 with start of output planned for 2013. Peak production should reach about 4.5 bcm of natural gas per year. GDF SUEZ has a 65% interest in the project. Sonatrach and GDF SUEZ will jointly operate the Touat project, which plans for the development of ten fields. It also includes the construction of gas collection and processing infrastructure, as well as a connection to the pipeline which Sonatrach is planning to build in order to connect the southwest Algerian fields to Hassi R'mel. The project is estimated at $2.3bn, of which $1.5bn by GDF SUEZ. A sales agreement entrusts Sonatrach with the sale of the gas produced.