In a significant strategic shift after decades of reliance solely on coal, Morocco's leading independent electricity producer, the Moroccan Energy Company, is set to increase its production capacity by an impressive 300%. This ambitious initiative reflects the company's commitment to adapting to changing global energy demands and sustainability challenges.
The company currently operates the largest coal-fired thermal power plant in Africa and the Middle East, located in the Jorf Lasfar region. This facility comprises six units with a total capacity of 2 gigawatts, fulfilling approximately two-thirds of Morocco's electricity demand. Notably, 85% of the company's capital is owned by the Abu Dhabi National Energy Company.
As part of its expansion plans, the Moroccan Energy Company aims to elevate its production capacity to 8 gigawatts by January 2030. This increase will include 4.8 gigawatts generated from renewable energy sources, backed by significant investments estimated at 23.7 billion dirhams. The remaining capacity will be allocated to natural gas projects, with an expected cost of around 15.5 billion dirhams. This plan will involve the acquisition of the state-owned TAHADART thermal power plant, which has received approval from the Competition Council for expansion, as well as the development of renewable energy projects in various regions, with a particular focus on wind energy.
This strategic shift marks a deep transformation in the company's business model since its inception in 1997, as it seeks to diversify its energy mix by accelerating investments in renewable energy and water desalination. In recent years, the company has initiated the development of a new portfolio of projects that align with global energy transitions and sustainability challenges.
Additionally, the Moroccan Energy Company is poised to explore promising fields, including green hydrogen. In February, the company signed an agreement with the Spanish firm Moyaf and the Moroccan government to develop a project for producing green ammonia and industrial fuel in the city of Dakhla. It is also undertaking projects aimed at desalinating seawater with a capacity of up to one million cubic meters annually, as Morocco seeks to attract major investments in the green hydrogen sector, leveraging its natural resources and geographical position.
As reported by almarrakchia.net.
