Morocco and UAE forge $13 million energy and water partnership

Tuesday 20 May 2025 - 08:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco and UAE forge $13 million energy and water partnership

Morocco is determined to address critical energy and water challenges, leading the way towards strong water and electricity sovereignty.

A powerful consortium, including the Mohammed VI Investment Fund, TAQA Morocco, and NAREVA, has formalized three agreements with the Moroccan government and the National Office of Electricity and Water (ONEE).

According to a statement from TAQA Morocco, the initiative stems from a joint declaration between King Mohammed VI and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan signed in December 2023.

In a context marked by the urgent need to implement the water and energy roadmaps, the statement noted that the partnership will be executed within an accelerated timeframe, with an investment of nearly MAD 130 billion ($13 million) by 2030.

The strategic program materializes this partnership, aiming to enhance Morocco’s water sovereignty and the resilience of the national network of electricity transportation.

The program not only seeks to improve water desalination capacities but also focuses on natural gas-based electricity and increasing renewable energy integration within the network.

For water security, the initiative will construct transfer infrastructure between major river basins, moving 800 million cubic meters annually to water-stressed regions. Additionally, new desalination plants powered entirely by renewable energy will add 900 million cubic meters of fresh water capacity each year.

Energy infrastructure forms a crucial component as well. A massive 1,400-kilometer high-voltage transmission line will connect southern and central Morocco, facilitating the transport of 3,000 MW of electricity. This will enable the country to better utilize renewable resources from its sun-rich southern regions.

The consortium will also develop 1,200 MW of new renewable energy capacity while constructing flexible gas-powered plants in Tahaddart, with approximately 1,500 MW capacity. This balanced approach aims to ensure both Morocco’s energy security and environmental sustainability.

The partnership extends beyond physical infrastructure. The program is expected to create over 25,000 jobs, including 10,000 permanent positions, while driving technology transfer and industrial development. Local manufacturing capacity in the desalination and renewable energy sectors will grow significantly, as highlighted by TAQA Morocco.

These projects will be equally owned by TAQA Morocco and NAREVA, with the Mohammed VI Fund for Investment and other public players holding a 15% stake.

Morocco’s collaboration with the UAE further demonstrates its commitment to engaging in regional partnerships to tackle complex challenges through shared expertise, investment, and vision, establishing a model for sustainable development across North Africa and the Middle East.