Morocco highlights energy transition progress at Lausanne conference

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Morocco’s achievements in renewable energy and sustainable development were highlighted during a conference held at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL), where Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development Leila Benali presented the Kingdom’s vision for the future of energy and climate action.

Addressing students, academics, diplomats and institutional representatives, Benali emphasized that the global energy transition extends far beyond technological innovation. According to her, it represents a profound economic, social and political transformation that is reshaping industrial systems, international relations and patterns of development across the world.

The minister explored the growing links between energy policy, climate objectives and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence. She noted that these interconnected trends are driving new demands for infrastructure, critical minerals and advanced industrial capabilities, creating both opportunities and challenges for countries seeking to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global economy.

Focusing on Morocco’s experience, Benali highlighted the acceleration of reforms launched in recent years to support the country's energy transformation. Significant investments have been directed toward renewable energy projects and the modernization of electricity networks, reinforcing Morocco’s position as one of the leading clean-energy actors in Africa and the Mediterranean region.

The Kingdom has made substantial progress in expanding solar, wind and other renewable energy capacities. These efforts are expected to bring Morocco closer to its objective of increasing the share of renewable sources in the national energy mix while reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels.

The minister also underlined the importance of energy efficiency and self-generation initiatives, which allow households and businesses to produce part of their own electricity. Such measures are viewed as tools for promoting greater energy independence, reducing costs and encouraging citizen participation in the energy transition.

Despite the advances achieved, Benali stressed that maintaining reform momentum remains essential. She called on younger generations to play an active role in addressing major global challenges, including climate change, biodiversity loss and the impact of geopolitical tensions on energy security.

The conference concluded with discussions on international energy issues, global supply chains and the strategic importance of cooperation in ensuring a sustainable and resilient energy future. Participants exchanged views on the evolving global energy landscape and the role that innovation and international partnerships can play in accelerating the transition toward cleaner energy systems.