Electricity in Morocco in 2023

Based on our forecast model which utilizes actual data from the first 9 months and projected figures for the remaining quarter of the year 2023, Morocco's current electricity consumption reveals a predominant reliance on fossil sources, namely coal and gas, achieving a combined input of nearly 55 TWh. Low-carbon energy generation, which encompasses wind, solar, and nuclear energy, has made significant but comparatively smaller contributions, summing up to close to 9 TWh. This stark contrast indicates that fossil fuels provide more than three quarters of Morocco's electricity, leaving low-carbon sources accounting for hardly a quarter. When compared to the global average electricity consumption of 410 watts per person, this heavily fossil fuel-oriented energy profile could lead to potential environmental detriments such as elevated levels of air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, this carbon-intensive energy mix could pose challenges for Morocco's goal of transitioning to a cleaner, more sustainable model, as well as potential economic implications related to fossil fuel price instability.

Suggestions

Expanding Morocco's low-carbon electricity generation capacities, particularly through harnessing more wind power, could shift its energy profile to a cleaner and more sustainable one. This approach is already proving fruitful, with wind contributing over 50% to the country's low-carbon portfolio. By examining successful countries with similar conditions, Morocco could learn from and adopt proven strategies. Looking at Spain, for instance, a country with a comparable geography and climate, we see substantial production from both wind and solar sources. The People's Republic of China and the United States, despite their scale difference, each showcases the triumphs of significant wind and solar investments. By drawing upon this international inspiration, Morocco could diversify and bolster its low-carbon electricity production, thus mitigating its current overreliance on fossil fuels.

History

Historically, Morocco has experienced a gradual but consistent increase in low-carbon electricity generation. The majority of these efforts have been capitalized on hydroelectric power, which has seen fluctuations throughout the 1990s and 2000s but maintains a steady contribution to the overall energy mix. In 2013, Morocco embarked on a new path by integrating wind power into its low-carbon arsenal, which has evidenced steady annual growth since its inception. Solar power was introduced in known records in 2019 and although it currently comprises a smaller fraction of the total, it continues to show promising potential with consistent increases over the last few years. This progression signifies a positive shift toward embracing cleaner, alternative energy sources, highlighting Morocco’s potential for future expansion and adoption of low-carbon power sources.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources