In 2024, Morocco's electricity landscape showed a strong reliance on fossil fuels, with more than half of its electricity—69% to be precise—being derived from fossil sources, mainly coal, which alone accounted for about 55%. Low-carbon energy sources made up roughly 26% of the electricity mix, indicating a significant effort towards cleaner energy but still trailing behind fossil fuels. Wind energy was the dominant low-carbon source, contributing over 21% of the electricity, while solar and hydropower contributed modestly with figures of approximately 4% and 1%, respectively. Combined with net imports, which accounted for just over 5% of the electricity supply, Morocco's electricity consumption shows a nation striving for cleaner energy but facing challenges in balancing its energy portfolio.
Is Electricity Growing in Morocco?
Electricity consumption in Morocco is on an upward trajectory. In 2024, the average electricity use per person reached 1219 kWh, marking an increase over the previous record in 2023 of 1175 kWh per person. This growth—a 44 kWh/person increase—signifies escalating demands matched by an increase in electricity generation capability. Particularly noteworthy is the rise in low-carbon electricity generation, which reached 316 kWh per person in 2024. This marks a significant increase of 72 kWh per person from the previous year's record, underscoring a growing commitment to clean energy as part of Morocco’s energy expansion efforts.
Suggestions
To further boost its low-carbon electricity generation, Morocco can look to expand its already significant wind energy infrastructure, drawing inspiration from successful regions like Denmark and Iowa, where wind contributes over half of their electricity generation. Introducing nuclear energy as another low-carbon option could diversify and stabilize Morocco’s energy mix, taking cues from countries like France, where nuclear power constitutes a substantial portion of their electricity. Additionally, solar energy should not be overlooked, with countries like Lebanon and Nevada having demonstrated substantial solar electricity contributions. By learning from these regions, Morocco can effectively increase its share of low-carbon electricity and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, addressing climate change and air pollution concerns.
History
Morocco's history with low-carbon electricity has been marked by gradual growth, particularly since the late 20th century. In the late '90s, hydro started to make some inroads, but its role has seen fluctuations with both appreciable gains, such as in 2009, and declines, notably in 2011. The early 2000s through the 2010s saw an ascendant role for wind, with significant gains recorded throughout the 2010s, notably in 2019 and remarkably in 2024 with a 3.3 TWh increase. Solar too came into prominence from 2018 onwards, contributing steadily to the low-carbon mix along with wind. The country’s concerted efforts in enhancing low-carbon electricity through wind and solar are indicative of a forward-moving trend, despite occasional setbacks in hydropower. Morocco appears to be setting its course toward a greener energy future, addressing both local energy demands and global environmental challenges.
Electrification
We estimate the degree of electrification by comparing electricity and total energy emissions. More about methodology.