This notable integrated solar-storage project will feature a 602MWh battery energy storage system, making Morocco the first African country to adopt large-scale, commercial 'photovoltaic + energy storage' technology.
Does Morocco need a solar power station?
Ouarzazate Solar Power Station. As of 2019, renewable energy in Morocco covered 35% of the country's electricity needs.
Recent projects dedicated to solar energy include a loan from the Climate Investment Funds' Clean Technology Fund. This program, which is set to invest $25 million, demonstrates Morocco's commitment to the Paris Agreement and its continued support in reducing greenhouse gases.
Morocco is preparing to launch a massive foray into clean energy with its ambitious 1.6 GW BESS projects. The National Office for Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE) is expected to invite tenders for battery energy storage systems (BESS) totaling nearly 1,600MW.
Who is pursuing a solar-independent power project in Riyadh?
Meanwhile, the Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (Masen) is also in contention. It recently tendered for solar-independent power projects with battery storage. Riyadh-headquartered Acwa Power led the winning bids for the Noor Midelt 2 and 3 projects, each 400MW of solar with attached BESS.
What are Morocco's Bess projects?
Morocco's 1.6 GW BESS projects represent a key step in its clean energy ambitions. The facilities will electrify key urban areas and firm up the grid. Although the initial focus is in the northwest, the government aims nationwide. Furthermore, the projects align with Morocco's ambitions to generate 52% of its electricity from renewables by 2030.