Morocco Green Hydrogen Projects: A $32B Investment
Morocco is making significant strides in renewable energy with the approval of green hydrogen projects worth 319 billion dirhams ($32.5 billion). These projects, aimed at producing ammonia, steel, and industrial fuel, mark a pivotal step in the country’s transition to a greener economy. The initiative, as reported by Reuters, underscores Morocco’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions and positioning itself as a key player in the global renewable energy market.
A Collaborative Effort for a Sustainable Future
A Moroccan government committee has approved several high-profile green hydrogen projects, involving international and local partners. Among the selected companies are the United States’ Ortus, Spain’s Acciona, and Germany’s Nordex, which will focus on green ammonia production. Additionally, the UAE’s Taqa and Spain’s Cepsa will collaborate on a project to produce ammonia and fuel, while Morocco’s Nareva will develop ammonia, fuel, and steel. Saudi Arabia’s Acwa Power will concentrate on steel production, and Chinese firms UEG and China Three Gorges will team up to produce ammonia.
Each project will be allocated up to 30,000 hectares of land once preliminary agreements are signed. This allocation is part of Morocco’s broader strategy to create integrated projects that cover renewable electricity generation, electrolysis, and the conversion of green hydrogen into ammonia, methanol, and synthetic fuels.
Driving Domestic and International Energy Goals
Morocco’s green hydrogen initiative is not only aimed at meeting domestic energy needs but also at boosting exports to the European Union. The EU’s Green Deal, which calls for the import of 10 million tons of renewable hydrogen by 2030, presents a significant opportunity for Morocco to become a leading supplier of clean energy.
The country has already laid the groundwork for this ambitious plan. In March 2023, Morocco announced the allocation of 300,000 hectares for integrated green hydrogen projects. These projects will leverage the nation’s abundant renewable energy resources, particularly solar and wind, to produce green hydrogen through electrolysis.
International partnerships are also playing a crucial role in advancing Morocco’s green hydrogen ambitions. France’s TotalEnergies signed an agreement with the Moroccan government in October to develop green hydrogen, while Engie partnered with OCP, Morocco’s phosphate and fertilizer giant, to produce ammonia from green hydrogen.
A Renewable Energy Vision for 2030
Morocco’s green hydrogen projects are part of a larger strategy to increase the share of renewables in its energy mix. The country aims to raise the proportion of renewable energy in its installed capacity to 52% by 2030, up from the current 45%. This target aligns with Morocco’s broader vision of becoming a regional leader in renewable energy and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels.
The approval of these projects represents a significant milestone in Morocco’s energy transition. By investing in green hydrogen, the country is not only addressing its domestic energy challenges but also positioning itself as a key contributor to global efforts to combat climate change.
As Morocco continues to forge partnerships and allocate resources to green hydrogen, it is setting an example for other nations in the region and beyond. The success of these projects could pave the way for a more sustainable and energy-secure future, both for Morocco and its international partners.