Morocco’s Solar Investment to Power Ambitious Draa-Tafilalet Project
Morocco’s National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE) is preparing to launch a groundbreaking tender for a 400-MW solar project in the Draa-Tafilalet region. With an estimated investment of MAD 2 billion (USD 194 million/EUR 181.5 million), the ambitious project is set to transform the region’s energy landscape.
Project Scope and National Energy Strategy
The Draa-Tafilalet solar project is a significant step in Morocco’s broader renewable energy strategy, which aims to generate 52% of the nation’s electricity from renewable sources by 2030. The initiative will use a public-private partnership (PPP) model to develop multiple solar photovoltaic plants across the provinces of Errachidia, Midelt, and Tinghir. Each plant will span approximately 100 hectares and have a capacity of 100 MW.
Projected to cost nearly MAD 2 billion (USD 194 million), the initiative will be funded through a blend of public and private investments. This financial model is designed to ensure efficient resource allocation and long-term sustainability.
The solar facilities will be integrated into the national power grid, bolstering Morocco’s electricity supply and reducing its reliance on fossil fuels. This approach also aligns with the nation’s international climate commitments by cutting greenhouse gas emissions.
Tender Process and Timeline
The tender process for the Draa-Tafilalet project is expected to begin shortly, with a detailed timeline to be announced in the coming weeks. ONEE has already completed a comprehensive feasibility study assessing key factors such as land availability, solar radiation levels, and grid connectivity.
The study also evaluated the project’s potential economic and social impacts. Beyond supplying clean energy, the solar plants are expected to create jobs and stimulate economic growth within the Draa-Tafilalet region.
The tender process will begin with a prequalification phase, where interested companies must demonstrate their technical and financial capabilities. Following prequalification, companies will submit detailed proposals for evaluation based on technical specifications, financial offers, and their experience with similar projects.
Environmental and Social Benefits
The Draa-Tafilalet solar project is poised to deliver significant environmental benefits by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and helping Morocco meet its clean energy objectives. The initiative will champion advanced solar technologies that offer greater efficiency and environmental advantages compared to traditional energy sources.
The project is expected to create jobs throughout the construction, operation, and maintenance phases of the solar facilities. The development of local infrastructure, including roads and transmission lines, will further benefit the region by improving access to services and stimulating economic growth.
The project will also bolster Morocco’s energy security by diversifying its energy mix. By increasing the share of renewable energy in the national grid, Morocco can reduce its vulnerability to fluctuations in the global energy market.
Future Prospects for Morocco’s Renewable Energy Sector
The Draa-Tafilalet project represents a pivotal step toward Morocco’s renewable energy goals. The nation has already made remarkable progress in this sector, highlighted by the Noor Ouarzazate Solar Complex—one of the world’s largest concentrated solar power (CSP) plants.
Morocco’s renewable energy strategy is focused on harnessing its abundant solar and wind resources to meet domestic energy needs and potentially export clean energy to Europe. The country has set ambitious targets for renewable capacity, aiming for 10 GW of solar and wind power by 2030.
The Draa-Tafilalet solar project is expected to play a crucial role in achieving these targets, providing a reliable source of clean energy and attracting further investment in the sector. This project will serve as a model for future renewable energy developments in Morocco and beyond, reinforcing the country’s position as a leader in sustainable energy initiatives. For more insights on Morocco’s solar investments, check out Morocco solar investment: 2 Billion Dirhams for Stunning Solar Expansion.
