Sound Energy and Gaia join forces to boost Morocco’s solar energy capacity

Wednesday 18 June 2025 - 09:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Sound Energy and Gaia join forces to boost Morocco’s solar energy capacity

British company Sound Energy has partnered with Gaia Energy Ltd. to develop up to 270 megawatts of solar power at multiple sites across Morocco, marking a significant step in reducing the country’s reliance on imported fossil fuels while advancing its clean energy goals.

A strategic partnership for solar development

The joint venture aims to capitalize on Morocco’s abundant solar resources, which remain largely untapped despite the country receiving over 3,000 hours of sunlight annually. The partnership plans to construct solar plants near medium voltage substations, strategically chosen for their proximity to customer bases and compatibility with Morocco’s deregulated power grid.

Gaia Energy, a clean energy developer active in 15 countries, has already commenced site assessments, including land availability studies and solar radiation analysis. The collaboration, though in its early stages, represents a concrete step toward building energy infrastructure aligned with Morocco’s sustainable energy ambitions.

Addressing Morocco’s energy dependence

Morocco’s energy landscape still relies heavily on imported oil, coal, and gas, which accounted for over 90% of its energy needs in 2023. Approximately 60% of the country’s installed power capacity depends on fossil fuels, while solar energy contributes a mere 7%. This imbalance underscores the urgency of expanding renewable energy sources, particularly as Morocco’s electricity imports from Europe increased earlier this year.

The move to diversify energy sources is critical as Morocco prepares to host major international events, including the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Modernizing the energy network is seen as essential to support these events while ensuring long-term energy security.

Broader energy transition goals

For Sound Energy, traditionally known for its gas exploration activities, this partnership signals a strategic entry into the renewable energy sector. For Gaia Energy, it reinforces its role as a leading developer in emerging markets committed to advancing clean energy solutions.

The project also aligns with Morocco’s broader energy transition strategy, which seeks to reduce dependence on global energy markets while harnessing domestic renewable resources.

In parallel, Sound Energy is advancing Morocco’s first liquefied natural gas (LNG) project at the Tendrara field in eastern Morocco. The facility, expected to produce up to 40 million cubic feet of gas per day, will be supported by nearby reserves with an estimated 10.67 billion cubic meters of natural gas. This development represents another critical piece of Morocco’s evolving energy landscape.