What If: Africa’s Energy Future Starts in the Moroccan Dessert?

As the global race toward net-zero accelerates, Morocco is quietly leading a clean energy revolution, one that could reshape not only its economy but the continent’s energy trajectory. With abundant sunshine, strong winds, and bold national targets, including sourcing 53% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, Morocco is turning geographical advantages into strategic leadership. Through massive solar expansions, wind power development, and emerging green hydrogen initiatives, the Kingdom is proving that the desert can do more than endure the heat. It can generate hope, power, and progress.

The Ouarzazate Solar Power Station (OSPS)

Morocco as a Regional Leader

According to Leila Benali, Morocco’s Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, the country is already on a stable path to becoming a regional hub for clean energy and strategic minerals. Over the past two decades, Morocco has consistently invested in clean energy infrastructure, allowing it to produce competitive electricity from renewable resources.

One of the cornerstones of Morocco’s clean energy revolution is the Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex. With a current capacity of 510 MW and expansion plans up to 582 MW, it stands as one of the largest concentrated solar power (CSP) plants in the world. This project has positioned Morocco at the forefront of energy transition and strengthened its long-term sustainable development strategy. If this kind of project replicated elsewhere in the region, this could help transform energy access across Africa.

Beyond the Moroccan Sun

The Noor Ouarzazate project is only one part of Morocco’s broader renewable energy strategy. Various other major projects are being developed to create a more inclusive and diverse energy system, including:

• Tarfaya Wind Farm

One of the largest wind farms in Africa, with a capacity of 300 MW. The project marks a significant step in Morocco’s wind energy development and contributes to a more balanced and diverse energy mix. 

• Green Hydrogen Development

In 2024, Morocco allocated 300,000  hectares for integrated projects aimed at producing electricity and converting it into green hydrogen, as well as derivatives such as ammonia, methanol, and synthetic fuels. This marks Morocco’s entry into the emerging global green hydrogen market.

• Noor Midlet Project

A hybrid solar power plant with battery energy storage system, projected to generate and store up to 800 MW. This project plays a key role in enhancing flexibility and reliability in Morocco’s electricity supply. 

These projects collectively support Morocco’s ambitious goal of sourcing over half its electricity from renewable sources by 2030, outpacing the commitments of many developed countries.

Becoming an Exporter of Clean Energy

With extraordinary renewable energy potential, Morocco is positioning itself as an exporter of clean energy to Europe and West Africa. One of the most notable projects is Xlinks, an undersea cable that will direct supply of renewable electricity from Morocco to the United Kingdom. This initiative signals Morocco’s role in shaping a more connected, cleaner, and more resilient global energy system.

A Desert That Powers the World

Morocco’s journey demonstrates how strategic vision, consistent policy support, and investment in local potential can turn geographical challenges into global solutions. The same desert once considered barren is now a vital source of energy that not only powers Morocco but also contributes to the world’s clean energy future.

With continued commitment and growing international partnerships, Morocco is proving that Africa’s energy future is not only renewable—it’s world-class.