Morocco is set to embark on its most ambitious renewable energy project to date, with plans to establish a massive solar and wind power installation in the Western Sahara Desert.
The energy generated will supply Casablanca, Morocco’s largest city, via an extensive 1,400-kilometer electricity transmission network. The project is scheduled to begin in January 2025, according to local reports.
Located near Dakhla in the disputed Western Sahara region, the project will involve the construction of large-scale renewable energy facilities aimed at harnessing the area’s abundant sunlight and persistent winds.
The National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE), Morocco’s main energy provider, confirmed the initiative, describing it as a pivotal step in advancing Morocco’s renewable energy goals.
The project’s power output will be transported to Casablanca on the Atlantic coast through high-voltage power lines, marking Morocco’s longest transmission and distribution route to date. The extensive infrastructure underscores the country’s commitment to addressing its growing energy demands while reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
“The Dakhla region’s unique climate makes it an ideal location for sustainable energy production, leveraging both solar and wind resources,” stated ONEE, as quoted in local newspapers. Casablanca, a bustling economic hub, will benefit significantly from the clean energy generated by this project, aligning with Morocco’s broader climate objectives.
Morocco has invested heavily in renewable energy in recent years, with an aim to generate more than 50% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030. This latest venture represents a key milestone in that effort, positioning the country as a leader in Africa’s renewable energy transition.
