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Morocco's electricity demand surges as heatwaves drive air conditioning usage

Thursday 17 July 2025 - 15:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco's electricity demand surges as heatwaves drive air conditioning usage

Morocco's electricity grid has witnessed a significant surge in demand, peaking at around 7.0 gigawatts on June 20, attributed to persistent heatwaves that have increased reliance on air conditioning. This figure represents a nearly 5% rise compared to 2024, according to Energy Transition Minister Leila Benali.

Benali emphasized that the pressure on the electrical grid is expected to escalate further due to ongoing high temperatures. She highlighted a joint decree between her ministry and the Ministry of Industry aimed at establishing minimum energy performance standards for air conditioning units. This initiative also outlines energy performance criteria for buildings, promoting the use of local and traditional materials in construction, particularly in rural and mountainous areas.

In discussing energy efficiency, Benali noted that model buildings designed with drone stone walls maintain comfortable indoor temperatures ranging between 15 and 25 degrees Celsius, even amidst extreme external heat.

Amid these developments, the Moroccan government aims to double its power generation capacity by 2030, coinciding with the country's co-hosting of the FIFA Club World Cup alongside Portugal and Spain. Last month, Benali revealed that 80% of the anticipated increase in power generation—from the current 12 gigawatts to 27 gigawatts—will come from renewable sources. The expansion is projected to require an investment of $13 billion from both public and private sectors.

Further, Benali stated that Morocco must invest $40 billion to reach its energy objectives, with over $20 billion earmarked for renewable energy and energy efficiency projects, and an equal amount for enhancing interconnections between Africa and Europe. Currently, renewable resources contribute over 45% of Morocco's electricity supply, with the goal of reaching 52% by 2030.