Electricity in Morocco in 2023

In 2023, the majority of Morocco's electricity consumption is driven by fossil fuels, with fossil energy sources accounting for about 75% of the total. Coal is the primary contributor, providing over 60% of the electricity, followed by a small portion from gas. Low-carbon energy sources, such as wind and solar, contribute to just over 20% of electricity consumption in Morocco, with wind energy being the most significant clean energy source at almost 15%. Solar energy contributes just under 5%. Hydropower accounts for barely more than 1% of the electricity, while net imports stand at around 4%.

Suggestions

To boost low-carbon electricity generation, Morocco could significantly expand its wind energy infrastructure, building on its already successful wind installations. Learning from Denmark, which generates nearly 60% of its electricity from wind, Morocco could implement strategies to optimize wind farm locations and invest in newer technologies for higher yield and efficiency. Additionally, Morocco could explore opportunities to develop a nuclear energy program by taking cues from countries like Armenia and Slovakia, where nuclear energy represents a major portion of the electricity mix. These countries demonstrate the ability of nuclear to provide reliable, large-scale low-carbon electricity. By diversifying its energy mix, Morocco could substantially reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, mitigate the impact of climate change, and improve air quality.

History

Over the past few decades, Morocco's low-carbon electricity landscape has seen various developments. During the 1990s and early 2000s, hydropower was the main source of clean electricity, but its contribution fluctuated significantly, with some years seeing decreases in generation. Notably, 1996 saw a rise of 1.3 TWh, while other years like 1999 and 2011 experienced declines. In the 2010s, wind energy began to emerge, with steady growth each year and notable increases in 2018 and 2019. Solar energy started making its mark in 2018 and continued to grow, with a significant rise in 2023 alongside wind. These developments reflect Morocco's gradual but determined shift towards increasing the share of low-carbon electricity in its energy mix.

Electricity Imports and Exports

Balance of Trade

Data Sources