Morocco reactivates the Noor Ouarzazate III solar plant and strengthens its leadership in renewable energy
The Noor Ouarzazate III solar plant, one of the largest concentrated solar power facilities in the world, has resumed electricity production after more than a year of closure due to a technical incident. The Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (MASEN) announced the successful start-up of the plant, highlighting its importance within the national energy transition strategy.
Located in the Ouarzazate solar complex, the plant began operating in 2018 and uses concentrated solar power (CSP) tower technology, which relies on a field of heliostat mirrors that reflect sunlight onto a receiver at the top of a central tower. The captured solar energy is stored as heat in molten salt tanks, allowing electricity to be generated even in the absence of direct sunlight, ensuring a continuous energy supply.
The plant was shut down in February 2024 due to a leak in one of the thermal storage tanks, critical components that operate under extreme temperature conditions. Thanks to the technical expertise of MASEN's teams, the damaged tank was successfully replaced and the fault resolved, marking a milestone in the management of complex infrastructure.
‘The restart is the result of the strong mobilisation of our teams on the ground. It demonstrates our ability to tackle complex situations with methodology and responsibility,’ said Tarik Ameziane Moufaddal, CEO of MASEN.
The restart process included a rigorous approach with enhanced verification procedures and a series of technical tests to ensure the safety and optimal performance of the plant. This work was made possible by close coordination with MASEN's industrial partners and strict compliance with international quality standards.
At the same time, construction has begun on a new thermal storage tank, designed to offer greater resistance to thermal cycles and increase the reliability of the heat storage system. This development aims to optimise the plant's long-term operational efficiency.
The reactivation of Noor Ouarzazate III not only symbolises the country's technological resilience, but also revitalises its strategic role as an African hub for renewable energy production. As Moufaddal pointed out, ‘this achievement reaffirms Morocco's expertise in renewable energy and supports the Kingdom's energy transition’.
The commissioning of this plant boosts Morocco's strategy of investing in clean, natural and sustainable energy sources. In recent years, the Kingdom has stepped up its commitment to developing strategic green energy projects, consolidating its position as a regional leader in the transition to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy model.
