Morocco is taking a monumental step in its renewable energy journey with the Chbika project, a major initiative set to combine 1 GW of solar and wind power for green hydrogen production. The project recently achieved a significant milestone with the signing of a preliminary land reservation contract, signaling a strong commitment from both the Moroccan government and its international partners.
Solar and Wind Power for Morocco green hydrogen
The Chbika project represents a powerful fusion of Morocco’s abundant natural resources. Located in the Guelmim-Oued Noun region near the Atlantic coast, the initiative will build 1 GW of onshore solar and wind capacity. This clean electricity will power the production of green hydrogen through the electrolysis of desalinated seawater.
The scale is impressive, with plans to generate 200,000 tonnes of green hydrogen annually. Green hydrogen is produced by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable energy, making it a critical fuel for decarbonizing heavy industry and transport. Projects like Chbika are possible thanks to the incredible Morocco solar potential, which provides a vast and cost-effective source of clean energy.
A Landmark Partnership
The development of the Chbika project is a collaborative effort involving a consortium of key players, including TE H2, Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners (CIP), and A.P. Moller Capital, working closely with the Moroccan government. The project recently advanced with the signing of a Preliminary Contract for Land Reservation, an event that took place under the presidency of King Mohammed VI of Morocco and French President Emmanuel Macron.
This contract is the first of its kind in Morocco, marking a pivotal moment for the nation’s green hydrogen strategy. The project is expected to attract significant investment, stimulate economic growth in the region, and create numerous jobs during its construction and operational phases, requiring a skilled workforce for everything from site preparation to managing the advanced manufacturing machines involved.
Significance of the Chbika Project
The Chbika project is a cornerstone of Morocco’s ambitious energy strategy. The country is on a path to significantly expand its clean energy sources, aligning with the national goal of reaching an impressive 15 GW renewable energy target by 2030. By investing in large-scale projects like this, Morocco is actively reducing its reliance on fossil fuels and positioning itself as a future leader in the global green hydrogen market.
This initiative also demonstrates a global trend toward massive integrated renewable energy hubs. Similar in ambition to the wind-solar-hydrogen project planned for Inner Mongolia, Chbika showcases how nations can leverage their renewable resources to become key exporters of clean energy.
Morocco’s Renewable Energy Journey
Morocco has long been a pioneer in renewable energy development in Africa, investing heavily in solar and wind power over the last decade. The Chbika project is the latest, and one of the most significant, additions to its growing portfolio.
The country’s commitment extends beyond generation to include building a domestic supply chain. This holistic approach is evident in the development of local manufacturing capabilities, such as the launch of a 1 GW Solar PV facility, which strengthens the entire ecosystem from raw materials to finished panels. Understanding the basics of solar panel manufacturing is becoming increasingly important as the industry grows within the country.
The Chbika project is a significant leap forward for Morocco. By harnessing its solar and wind power to produce green hydrogen, the nation is not only securing its own sustainable energy future but also preparing to make a substantial contribution to the global transition toward a low-carbon economy.
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