Morocco promotes its ambitions in renewable energy

Morocco is strongly committed to renewable energy, which is boosting its global influence.

The North African country is undergoing a strategic energy transformation, positioning itself as a regional leader in renewable energy while strengthening its economic resilience and environmental sustainability. The country's Green Generation Strategy 2020-2030 supports this change, with the aim of developing 24 gigawatts of renewable capacity over the next decade and placing Morocco at the forefront of the clean energy sector in North Africa.

The initiative comes amid growing energy demand in the Middle East and North Africa, driven by rising temperatures and climate change, according to a report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) entitled ‘The race for renewable energy in the Middle East and North Africa’.

Morocco's strategy is closely linked to its National Water Plan 2020-2050, a £45 billion programme that integrates renewable energy into water desalination projects to strengthen food security. By connecting energy, water and agriculture, the Moroccan kingdom is addressing the complex effects of climate change on its economy and society, setting itself apart from neighbouring countries, which are often constrained by interrelated resource problems.

The National Office for Electricity and Drinking Water has integrated renewable energy into industrial processes, such as fertiliser production and green hydrogen, thereby reducing dependence on fossil fuel imports and strengthening industrial resilience. The country is also expanding pumped hydroelectric energy storage to better manage fluctuations in electricity demand and mitigate climate disruptions or supply chain disruptions.

‘This approach increases Morocco's ability to adapt to global market crises and climate volatility,’ said an energy analyst. ‘It reflects a holistic strategy that links energy infrastructure with food and water security.’

With agriculture employing about 40% of the workforce, securing clean energy is critical to maintaining production amid constant heat waves and droughts. Renewable energy desalination and irrigation projects ensure agricultural productivity while conserving traditional water resources.

Economically, Morocco's push for renewable energy has attracted foreign investment, created jobs in the clean energy sector and related industries, and diversified the economy, reducing its reliance on traditional fossil fuel imports. The country has become a regional hub for clean energy innovation, competing in North Africa and the Middle East more broadly.

In contrast, many regional neighbours face significant obstacles to renewable energy development due to conflict, political instability, corruption, and poor financial management, limiting their ability to attract investment or build infrastructure. Iraq, for example, suffers frequent power cuts during heat waves, exacerbated by corruption and protracted negotiations.

The IISS report highlights that the development of renewable energy also puts pressure on critical minerals, such as copper and lithium, which are essential for batteries and storage systems. Morocco has implemented rigorous import and resource management strategies, leveraging international expertise, including Chinese technology, to secure supply chains.

Geopolitically, Morocco's leadership in renewable energy strengthens its regional and global position. According to the report, renewable energy is no longer just an environmental tool, but an economic and strategic asset, giving Morocco influence in regional policies and investment partnerships.

By linking energy to food, water and economic development, Morocco demonstrates that the transition to clean energy can drive sustainable growth, reduce energy costs, improve economic resilience and meet the growing demand for electricity and water, which is vital for a society dependent on agriculture and industry.

Experts describe Morocco's Green Generation Strategy as a pioneering model in North Africa, combining renewable energy, national security and sustainable development, while preparing for climate change and global market transformations. Its experience offers practical lessons for other countries in the region, demonstrating that strategic and well-managed investment in renewable energy can promote long-term national and regional security.