Morocco Reaffirms Green Energy Leadership at 16th Energy Conference
Rabat– The 16th Energy Conference, held at the symbolic Noor Ouarzazate solar complex, gathered key public and private stakeholders from Morocco's renewable energy and water desalination sectors.
Organized by the Fédération de l'Énergie in partnership with Masen and Iresen, the event focused on the theme: 'Energy: A Strategic Pillar for Water Security and Sustainable Development.'
Opened by Head of Government Aziz Akhannouch, the conference shed light on Morocco's accelerated shift toward renewables under the leadership of King Mohammed VI.
'Since the beginning of His Majesty's reign, Morocco has undergone a deep, progressive, and sustainable energy transformation,' Akhannouch stated, noting that the target of 52% installed renewable energy capacity is expected to be achieved by 2027 — three years ahead of schedule.
The Noor complex, inaugurated in 2016 and now fully operational with 580 MW of capacity, stands as a symbol of Morocco's energy revolution. Rachid Idrissi Kaitouni, President of the Fédération de l'Énergie, talked about how the facility greatly contributes to energy sovereignty and economic competitiveness.
Energy Minister Leila Benali affirmed Morocco's commitment to advancing renewables, highlighting 15 years of project experience and over three decades of private sector involvement. 'Morocco intends to push forward with the development of renewable energy and meet the challenges of energy transition,' she stated.
Significant investments are planned to support this transition. The National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE) has approved a MAD 220 billion investment budget through 2030, aiming to multiply investments in electrical networks fivefold and triple funding for energy projects.
One of the key themes of the conference was the interdependence between energy and water, particularly amid the country's ongoing struggle with severe drought.
Experts and officials spoke about the importance of powering desalination plants with renewable energy, an approach that reduces both carbon emissions and the cost of producing potable water.
They also touched upon flagship projects such as the Dakhla desalination plant, currently under construction, and the future Casablanca station as examples of this integrated strategy, reinforcing Morocco's commitment to both energy sustainability and water security.
As the world grapples with climate challenges, Morocco's model offers a compelling example of how renewable energy can drive sustainable development, powering not just homes and industries but also the essential infrastructure needed to secure water for future generations. Tags: arab energy conferenceClimategreen energy
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