Renewable Energy in Morocco

Morocco's Renewable Energy Leadership

Morocco has positioned itself as a global leader in renewable energy, setting an ambitious target to source 52% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. The country has made remarkable progress, leveraging its abundant solar and wind resources to build world-class clean energy infrastructure. As of 2024, Morocco has operational renewable energy capacity exceeding 4 gigawatts, with major investments in solar, wind, and emerging green hydrogen production positioning the nation as North Africa's renewable energy champion and a potential exporter of clean electricity to Europe.

Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex

The crown jewel of Morocco's renewable energy program is the Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex—the largest concentrated solar power (CSP) plant in the world. Spanning 6,000 acres, the complex consists of four power plants with a combined capacity of 580 megawatts: Noor I (160 MW) and Noor II (200 MW) use parabolic trough mirror technology, while Noor III (150 MW) employs heliostat (central tower) technology. The facility generates enough electricity to power a city the size of Prague and reduces CO₂ emissions by 760,000 tons annually. The thermal storage capacity allows electricity generation even after sunset, providing reliable baseload power.

Wind Energy Expansion

Morocco's wind energy sector has experienced rapid growth, reaching 1.4 gigawatts of installed capacity in 2023, with projections to expand to 5 gigawatts by 2030. The integrated 1,000 MW wind energy program, representing an investment of approximately 14.5 billion dirhams, was fully commissioned by 2024. Major wind farms operate in Tarfaya (producing 301 MW), Taza (150 MW), Midelt, Essaouira, and Tangier regions. Morocco's Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines provide exceptional wind resources, with consistent strong winds enabling high-capacity factors and competitive electricity costs.

Green Hydrogen Revolution

Morocco is emerging as a major player in green hydrogen production, leveraging renewable electricity to produce clean hydrogen through electrolysis. In September 2022, Morocco launched its first green hydrogen production system. The country has approved green hydrogen projects worth $32.5 billion collectively, aimed at producing ammonia, steel, and industrial fuels. Morocco's National Hydrogen Strategy targets local annual hydrogen demand of 5 TWh and exports of 10 TWh by 2030. The 2024 revision of the strategy codified feed-in tariffs for electrolyzers, guaranteeing fixed prices per kilogram of hydrogen for the first 10 years of operation, providing investor certainty.

The government has offered 1 million hectares of land for green hydrogen projects, attracting major international investors. Pilot projects are underway in collaboration with European and Asian partners to develop production facilities, pipelines, and export infrastructure. Green hydrogen could power Morocco's industries, produce green ammonia for fertilizers, create sustainable aviation fuels, and export clean energy to European markets via pipelines and shipping.

Hydro & Other Renewables

Morocco operates several hydroelectric dams contributing approximately 1.77 GW of installed capacity. While hydro output varies with rainfall, it remains an important component of the renewable energy mix. The country is also exploring opportunities in biomass, geothermal, and marine energy to diversify its renewable portfolio and maximize energy security.

Grid Integration & Energy Storage

Morocco is investing in smart grid technologies, transmission infrastructure, and energy storage systems to integrate variable renewable energy sources reliably. Battery storage projects, including large-scale installations paired with solar and wind farms, help balance supply and demand, provide grid stability, and enable higher renewable penetration rates. The national utility ONEE is modernizing transmission networks and implementing advanced grid management systems.

Policy Framework & Incentives

Morocco's renewable energy success is underpinned by supportive policies, clear regulatory frameworks, and attractive investment incentives. The government offers competitive feed-in tariffs, power purchase agreements, tax exemptions, streamlined permitting, and access to financing through international development banks. Independent power producers (IPPs) are encouraged to invest through transparent tender processes and long-term contracts ensuring revenue certainty.

Economic & Environmental Impact

The renewable energy sector creates thousands of jobs in manufacturing, construction, operations, and maintenance. Localization of component production, including solar panels, wind turbine parts, and balance-of-plant equipment, strengthens domestic industries. Reduced reliance on imported fossil fuels improves energy security, lowers trade deficits, and protects Morocco from global commodity price volatility. Environmental benefits include cleaner air, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and leadership in climate action.

Regional Energy Hub Ambitions

Morocco is positioning itself as a regional energy hub, exploring electricity interconnections with Spain and Portugal (already operational) and potential future links with other European and African nations. Exports of renewable electricity and green hydrogen could generate significant revenue while supporting Europe's decarbonization goals. Morocco's experience and expertise position it as a knowledge leader helping other African nations develop renewable energy sectors.

Future Outlook & 2030 Goals

By 2030, Morocco aims to have over 10 GW of renewable energy capacity installed. Ongoing and planned projects include additional solar complexes, offshore and onshore wind farms, green hydrogen production facilities, and energy storage systems. Continued investments in R&D, workforce development, and technological innovation will cement Morocco's status as a global renewable energy leader and model for emerging economies pursuing sustainable development.