With a staggering investment of nearly $32 billion, Abu Dhabi-based TAQA and Saudi Arabia’s ACWA Power, alongside other international and local players, have been granted contracts for six major green hydrogen projects in Southern Morocco, set to transform the nation’s energy landscape.
The Moroccan government, in a recent statement, highlighted its commitment to renewable energy by awarding these projects after extensive negotiations with several leading firms. Among the selected companies are China’s United Energy Group (UEG), Germany’s Nordex, and Spain’s Acciona and Cepsa, alongside six Moroccan businesses.
The initiatives are strategically distributed across various sectors. The ORNX consortium, featuring American company Ortus, Spain’s Acciona, and Germany’s Nordex, will focus on the production of ammonia, a critical component for numerous industries. Meanwhile, another consortium, led by TAQA and Spain’s Cepsa, aims to produce both ammonia and industrial fuel, catering to diverse energy needs.
Moroccan firm Nareva is embarking on a comprehensive venture that spans ammonia, industrial fuel, and green steel production, underscoring Morocco’s holistic approach to green energy. In parallel, ACWA Power from Saudi Arabia is set to channel its efforts into green steel manufacturing, marking a significant step in sustainable industrial practices.
Adding to the international participation, a Chinese consortium, including UEG and China Three Gorges, is poised to establish state-of-the-art ammonia production facilities. This collaboration signifies a robust global interest in Morocco’s renewable energy potential.
To provide context, Morocco is rapidly emerging as a green energy hub in the Middle East, leveraging its geographic advantages and political stability. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Morocco aims to generate 52% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030. This ambition is echoed by Dr. Fatima Al Balooshi, a renewable energy specialist, who emphasizes, “Morocco’s strategic investments in green hydrogen could position it as a leader in the global energy transition.”
