The future of renewable energy in Morocco: a boost for wind energy

Wind turbines at the Dahr Saadane wind farm in Tangier - AFP/ABDELHAK SENNA
Morocco has shown a firm commitment to energy transition, in line with its ambitious climate goals, and wind energy plays a crucial role, positioning itself as one of the main renewable sources in the country
  1. Wind energy: a strategic pillar
  2. Growth potential and challenges
  3. Impact on competitiveness and sustainable development

According to the latest OECD economic report, Morocco aims to reduce its carbon emissions by 45.5% by 2030 and achieve climate neutrality by 2050. The key to achieving these goals lies in the continued growth of renewable energy, especially wind energy. 

Wind energy: a strategic pillar

Today, Morocco has significantly increased its installed wind power capacity, making it a leader in the North African region. This growth has accelerated thanks to foreign direct investment (FDI) and strategic projects, such as the Tarfaya wind farm, one of the largest in Africa. Wind power accounts for a significant portion of Morocco's renewable generation capacity, and continues to expand to meet ambitious national energy targets.

The OECD report highlights that, while renewable energy currently accounts for around 9% of total energy supply, most of this comes from wind sources. Morocco has identified this sector as a strategic priority in its transition to a greener economic model, seeking to further increase its installed capacity. 

Morocco opts for renewable energy - PHOTO/FILE

Growth potential and challenges

Despite progress, Morocco faces several challenges. One of the main ones is the need for more investment in infrastructure, especially in connecting wind farms to the national grid.

The government has worked to improve the regulatory environment and make renewable energy investments more attractive. The new Investment Charter is a step in this direction, creating additional incentives to attract foreign capital to the sector.

Furthermore, technological integration and the improvement of labour skills in the sector are crucial to accelerate the growth of wind energy. Boosting innovation and the adoption of new technologies will help increase energy efficiency and reduce costs, facilitating access to this clean energy. 

In this file photo taken on February 4, 2016, Moroccan King Mohammed VI (centre) waves the Moroccan flag as he inaugurates the Noor 1 concentrated solar power (CSP) plant, some 20 kilometres (12.5 miles) from the city of Ouarzazate - AFP/FADEL SENNA

Impact on competitiveness and sustainable development

Wind energy is not only vital for meeting climate objectives, but also for Morocco's socio-economic development. The expansion of this sector has generated employment, especially in rural areas, and improved the country's competitiveness in global value chains. In addition, increased production of clean energy reduces Morocco's dependence on imported fossil fuels, which improves its trade balance. 

In short, wind energy in Morocco is not only an essential component of its energy strategy, but also represents an opportunity for more sustainable and equitable growth. With a determined focus on investment and innovation, the country is well positioned to lead the energy transition in the region. 

Juan Antonio Vidal 

Plant Manager InCom Group - Tangier