Morocco plans 20-megawatt AI data center near Casablanca

09:30

By: Azzat Manal

Morocco plans 20-megawatt AI data center near Casablanca

Morocco is moving forward with plans to expand its artificial intelligence infrastructure through a specialized data center with a capacity of up to 20 megawatts near Casablanca. The project is part of a broader initiative aimed at strengthening the country's position in advanced computing and attracting investment in the rapidly growing AI sector.

Nexus Core Systems has appointed British group FiveNines to lead feasibility studies and preliminary design work for the proposed facility. Its responsibilities include developing the engineering strategy, coordinating technical consultants, assessing construction feasibility and preparing a procurement plan.

The appointment marks an initial planning phase rather than the start of construction. Further studies, coordination with the relevant authorities and regulatory approvals will be required before the project can move into implementation.

The planned facility is expected to rely on advanced semiconductor technologies and NVIDIA's Vera Rubin NVL72 architecture, designed for demanding AI computing workloads. The infrastructure is intended to support applications requiring substantial processing capacity, including the development and deployment of advanced AI models.

Several specialist companies are expected to contribute to the design process. Zutari will serve as the lead design consultant, while R&B MEP will handle aspects of the mechanical and electrical systems. Fonto Energy has been assigned responsibilities related to the infrastructure associated with the power station.

The data center forms part of the wider Nexus AI Factory initiative, which seeks to establish an integrated ecosystem for artificial intelligence and high-performance computing in Morocco. The broader plan also includes a center of excellence and an innovation hub intended to support technological development and collaboration.

In April 2026, the Moroccan government announced a memorandum of understanding with Nexus Core Systems to launch the project's initial phases, backed by an investment of approximately 12 billion dirhams. The first phase is expected to involve a site in Nouaceur with a capacity of 16 megawatts and an investment of around 5 billion dirhams. A second phase would add up to 20 megawatts, with a further investment of approximately 7 billion dirhams.

The longer-term vision for the Nexus AI Factory reportedly targets total capacity of around 180 megawatts. The project is also expected to pursue renewable energy sources to power its facilities, reflecting the growing importance of energy availability and sustainability in the development of large-scale computing infrastructure.

Demand for AI data centers has increased as businesses and research institutions require greater computing power to train and operate advanced models. Such facilities depend not only on specialized processors but also on reliable electricity supplies, cooling systems, high-capacity digital networks and robust operational security.

For Morocco, the initiative could help strengthen its digital infrastructure, attract technology-related investment and create opportunities for engineering and specialized technical services. The country's geographic position between Europe and Africa may also offer advantages for companies seeking to serve regional markets.

However, the project's progress will depend on the completion of technical studies, permitting procedures, energy planning and subsequent investment decisions. The appointment of FiveNines represents an important preparatory step, but the construction timetable and final delivery of the proposed facility have yet to be established.