Morocco Launches Its First Offshore Wind Project — A 1000 MW Farm Off the Coast of Essaouira by 2029

ALDAR/

The Kingdom of Morocco has launched its first offshore wind energy project with a capacity of up to 1000 megawatts, located off the coast of the city of Essaouira. The project is expected to become operational by 2029, marking a significant turning point in the country’s clean energy agenda.

This initiative is part of an important international framework known as the Mediterranean Blue Partnership, which brings together several countries and international organizations aimed at developing sustainable energy sources in the Mediterranean Sea and enhancing environmental and economic cooperation among regional nations.

The project aims to achieve several vital goals, primarily boosting Morocco’s renewable energy production, thereby directly reducing dependence on traditional imported energy sources reliant on fossil fuels. This initiative also strengthens Morocco’s energy independence and supports the Kingdom’s journey towards meeting its sustainability goals outlined in its 2030 vision.

Economically, the project is expected to have a tangible impact by stimulating local industry. Moroccan authorities seek to integrate the project into the national value chain by encouraging local companies to participate in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance. This will contribute to creating thousands of specialized jobs in the renewable energy sector, particularly in coastal areas adjacent to the project, promoting local development and reducing unemployment.

Offshore wind energy is one of the fastest-growing renewable energy sources worldwide, distinguished by higher productivity compared to onshore wind farms, thanks to stronger and more consistent winds and proximity to urban consumption centers along coastal cities. Studies indicate that Morocco’s Atlantic coast possesses vast potential for harnessing offshore wind energy, given its geographic location that offers stable and powerful winds year-round.

This project follows Morocco’s successful development of large-scale solar and onshore wind energy projects, such as the Noor Solar Complex in Ouarzazate and wind farms in Tan-Tan, underscoring the Kingdom’s commitment to diversifying energy sources and reducing its carbon footprint.

Moreover, the project is expected to stimulate regional cooperation in clean energy by opening new horizons for exporting clean electricity to neighboring countries, particularly Europe, through subsea electricity interconnections — a move that would enhance Morocco’s role as a regional hub for sustainable energy.

In summary, the launch of the offshore wind farm off the coast of Essaouira represents a vital step toward a sustainable energy future for Morocco, integrating environmental and developmental challenges while enhancing green economy opportunities for the Kingdom and its society.