Masen the renewable energy agency of Morocco, announced that six consortiums had successfully pre-qualified for the development of Noor Midelt II, a 400-megawatt solar power facility situated in the Atlas mountains. This marks a milestone in Morocco’s endeavor to utilize renewable energy sources.
The pre-qualified consortiums for the construction of the remarkable Noor Midelt II solar plant in the Atlas Mountains comprise an impressive lineup of industry leaders. Among them are Cobra Servicios, Communicaciones y Energia from Spain, EDF Renouvelables from France (EDF.PA), Enel Green Power from Italy (ENEI.MI), Iberdrola Renovables International from Spain (IBE.MC), International Power from Belgium, and Acwa Power from Saudi Arabia (2082. SE). This diverse group of renowned companies reflects the global interest and commitment toward the realization of Morocco’s ambitious renewable energy goals.
The scope of the project involves the construction of a cutting-edge photovoltaic power plant equipped with a two-hour storage capacity. This innovative approach aims to enhance the reliability and stability of the energy generated, ensuring a consistent power supply even during periods of reduced solar irradiation. By incorporating advanced storage technology, the plant will optimize energy utilization, facilitating a more efficient integration of renewable sources into the grid and further solidifying Morocco’s position as a frontrunner in sustainable energy solutions.
Delays in Completion of First Phase of Solar Power Plant Project
In 2019, a consortium led by EDF Renouvelables emerged as the successful bidder in a highly competitive tender to develop an impressive 800 MW solar power plant. This groundbreaking project was envisioned to integrate two distinct technologies: photovoltaic (PV) and concentrated solar power (CSP). By combining these cutting-edge approaches, the consortium aimed to leverage the strengths of both PV and CSP to maximize the plant’s overall energy generation capacity and efficiency. This visionary initiative represents a significant milestone in advancing Morocco’s renewable energy landscape and underscores the nation’s commitment to harnessing innovative solutions for sustainable power generation.
As the project enters its fourth year, completion of the first phase has encountered delays, partially attributed to disagreements surrounding the implementation of concentrated solar power (CSP) technology, according to sources. These disagreements have posed challenges and hindered progress in achieving the envisioned milestones. The complexities surrounding the integration of CSP technology within the solar power plant have necessitated careful evaluation and resolution of differing perspectives. However, stakeholders remain committed to overcoming these obstacles, aiming to find consensus and forge a path forward that ensures the successful realization of the project’s objectives.
Official figures from 2022 reveal that renewable energy sources made up 18% of the total electricity production in the country. Meanwhile, coal remained the dominant contributor, accounting for 72% of the electricity generated. These statistics underscore the significant reliance on coal as an energy source, highlighting the pressing need for further development and integration of renewable energy solutions to diversify the energy mix and reduce carbon emissions. The figures serve as a reminder of the ongoing efforts required to transition towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy sector in the country.