Morocco promotes inclusive growth through energy and smart technologies

Thursday 27 November 2025 - 16:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco promotes inclusive growth through energy and smart technologies

Morocco is setting its sights on inclusive development by leveraging its energy sector and advancing smart technologies. Speaking in Casablanca at Elec Expo, EneR Event, and Tronica Expo 2025, Omar Hejira, Secretary of State to the Minister of Industry and Trade, emphasized the need to enhance the electricity sector's social impact. The international trade fairs, dedicated to electricity, electronics, renewable energy, and smart technologies, underscored the sector’s potential to drive skilled job creation and inclusive growth.

Hejira highlighted that while nearly half of the sector’s turnover is allocated to exports, it contributes only 4% of industrial employment. Out of 650 companies operating in the electricity sector, about one-third are exporters. He called for strategic reforms to transform the sector into a true engine of skilled job creation, emphasizing the government’s priority of fostering inclusive and sustainable economic growth.

Africa’s untapped potential in global trade

During the event, Hejira pointed to the vast yet underutilized energy and industrial potential of Africa. Intra-African trade accounts for less than 15% of the continent’s total trade, and only 2% of global solar investments are directed toward Africa, despite it being home to 60% of the world’s best solar resources.

Ali El Harti, president of the Moroccan Federation of Electricity (Fenelec), described energy storage as pivotal to the future of power grids. He cited significant advancements in the sector, such as the reduction in battery storage costs to below $100 per kWh, which has made energy cheaper and more accessible. A 5 kWh battery, for instance, can save households up to MAD 36,000, with a return on investment within two to three years.

El Harti emphasized the role of Moroccan companies in co-developing reliable and sustainable energy solutions for African countries. He noted that Morocco’s five decades of experience on the continent positions it as a leader in addressing Africa’s growing energy needs, which are expected to triple by 2040, creating an annual investment opportunity of $30 billion.

Innovation and partnerships shaping Morocco’s energy future

The three trade fairs, running from November 26 to 29 at the Casablanca International Exhibition Center (OFEC), gathered more than 200 exhibitors from 24 countries under the theme “Energy Storage and Smart Equipment: The Key to Tomorrow’s Power Grids.” The participation of over 50 African entrepreneurs from 13 countries highlights the confidence in Moroccan expertise and the nation’s growing role as a regional platform for innovation and energy cooperation.

El Harti concluded by emphasizing the importance of innovation, training, and competitiveness in shaping the sector’s future, underscoring the critical role of Moroccan talent in driving progress. The events cement Morocco’s position as a hub for energy collaboration and innovation across Africa.