Morocco and Spain are set to explore potential collaborations in the renewable energy sector, as companies from both countries gather in Casablanca from June 6 to 8 for a meeting to promote cooperation.
Morocco, which has long been committed to clean energy due to its reliance on fossil fuels and lack of gas or oil, has become a potential supplier of renewable energy not only for itself but also for Europe. With more than 300 days of sunshine a year, a high-yield wind potential, and sparsely populated desert lands, Morocco can take advantage of its geographical location to move towards energy independence, increasing energy security, and producing surpluses for export to Europe at a competitive cost.
See also: Morocco's Renewable Energy Potential to Decarbonize European Economy, Minister Says at Davos 2023
To achieve its goal of reaching 52% renewable energy sources by 2030, the Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (MASEN) plans to establish 20 solar plants and several wind power plants, which will allow it to generate 2,000 MW per year.
Additionally, existing hydroelectric dams in the country are capable of generating an additional 1,300 MW. Spanish companies, including engineering and construction company TSK, have already demonstrated their potential in the renewable energy sector in Morocco, with TSK being responsible for the design and construction of the Noor Midelt solar thermal power plant.
Spain, like Morocco, is also seeking to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and has a vested interest in investing in the renewable energy sector in Morocco. Collaboration between the two countries is necessary to facilitate the import of solar or wind energy from Morocco to Europe, requiring investment in an energy network that can bring energy from southern Morocco via the Iberian peninsula to Europe.
See also: Morocco's Commitment to Renewable Energy Progression and Leading Role in Green Hydrogen Development
The potential of low-cost renewable energy production in Morocco offers a solution to the dependence on increasingly expensive and finite hydrocarbons, aligning with Europe's goals for a greener and more sustainable future. Collaboration between Morocco and Spain in the renewable energy sector could not only benefit the two countries but also help achieve a common goal of a more sustainable future.
