Morocco unveils first 1,000 MW offshore wind project near Essaouira

Tuesday 17 June 2025 - 08:50

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco unveils first 1,000 MW offshore wind project near Essaouira

Morocco has announced the launch of its first offshore wind farm, a 1,000-megawatt project set to be built near Essaouira. The landmark initiative, unveiled on June 10 during the Mediterranean Day at the UN Conference on Oceans (UNOC3) in Nice, marks a significant step in the country’s transition to renewable energy.

A strategic shift to renewable energy

The project aligns with Morocco’s ambitious goal of generating over 52% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. Essaouira was chosen for its consistent and powerful marine winds, which average speeds of 11 meters per second, making it an ideal location for offshore wind energy development.

“This project is part of a dynamic that combines energy independence, industrial attractiveness, and economic competitiveness,” said Leila Benali, Morocco’s Minister of Energy Transition.

Construction of the wind farm is scheduled to begin by 2029, and it will be Morocco’s first venture into offshore wind energy, complementing its established solar and onshore wind programs.

Backed by Mediterranean Blue Partnership funding

The wind farm is supported by the Mediterranean Blue Partnership (MBP), a multi-donor fund dedicated to fostering sustainable blue economy projects in the southern Mediterranean and Red Sea. The MBP has raised €22 million to finance feasibility studies and technical assistance, with Spain recently contributing €8.5 million to join other partners, including Sweden, Germany, France, and the European Union.

In addition to Morocco’s offshore wind project, the MBP is funding two other initiatives in its first phase. In Jordan, a project will restore the Ayla oasis in the Gulf of Aqaba, increasing coral coverage by 240% and implementing thermal storage technology to save 1.2 million kilowatt-hours annually. In Egypt, a wastewater treatment plant near Alexandria will process 300,000 cubic meters of wastewater daily, benefiting 1.5 million people and reducing marine pollution.

Morocco joins a growing global market

The global offshore wind sector is expanding rapidly, with 19 gigawatts of new capacity expected in 2025, according to Rystad Energy. Morocco’s entry into this market is expected to inspire other Mediterranean countries to pursue similar projects, further advancing sustainable energy in the region.

Since 2015, the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM) has mobilized over €500 million for more than 250 regional projects focused on maritime clusters, decarbonization, marine biodiversity, and renewable energy.

A milestone in Morocco’s energy transition

The Essaouira offshore wind project represents a pivotal moment in Morocco’s energy strategy, further solidifying its position as a regional leader in renewable energy. After years of focusing on solar and onshore wind development, the country’s venture into offshore wind technology underscores its commitment to sustainable energy solutions.