Morocco accelerates wind energy projects in southern provinces

Thursday 10 July 2025 - 08:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Morocco accelerates wind energy projects in southern provinces

Morocco is advancing its renewable energy ambitions, aiming to increase the share of clean energy to 52% by 2030. The North African nation is actively negotiating with Emirati companies, including Masdar, AMEA Power, and Taqa, to develop wind energy projects in the southern provinces of Sahara. These projects are projected to bring investments ranging from $8 billion to $10 billion, with a total production capacity of 5,000 megawatts.

Investments in Morocco’s wind energy sector

The southern provinces of Morocco present ideal conditions for wind energy production, boasting wind speeds of 8.4 meters per second. This has attracted significant investments since 2015, reflecting the country's commitment to clean energy and reducing reliance on imported fuels for thermal power generation.

Currently, four operational wind farms in the region—Tarfaya (300 megawatts), Aftissat (200 megawatts), Laayoune (50 megawatts), and Akhfenir (200 megawatts)—contribute a combined 750 megawatts to Morocco's electricity grid. Two additional stations, Boujdour (300 megawatts) and Tiskrad (100 megawatts), are under development and expected to add 400 megawatts in the coming months.

Emirati partnerships driving development

Emirati companies are vying for a share of Morocco’s renewable energy projects, particularly in wind energy. In May, a Moroccan-Emirati consortium signed agreements worth $14 billion to implement infrastructure for renewable energy and seawater desalination. This includes a 1,400-kilometer transmission line to carry electricity from wind farms in the southern provinces to Casablanca, with a capacity of 1,200 megawatts.

Additionally, AMEA Power and Moroccan group Yina announced a partnership to develop a 100-megawatt wind farm in Laayoune. The facility is scheduled to begin construction in late 2025 and commence operations by 2027. Once operational, it will reduce carbon emissions by over 330,000 tons annually.

Morocco’s renewable energy milestones

By the end of 2024, Morocco’s wind energy capacity reached 2,373 megawatts, with wind contributing 21.23% of the electricity mix, up from 15.4% in 2023. These advancements underscore Morocco's position as a regional leader in renewable energy, driven by strategic partnerships and investments in its southern provinces.