Casablanca– Acwa Power, a leading developer and operator of power generation and water desalination projects worldwide, recently encountered operational challenges at its Noor III concentrated solar power (CSP) plant in Morocco. The Noor III plant, part of the larger Noor Ouarzazate complex, was forced to cease operations temporarily following the detection of a leak in its molten salt tank, impacting the plant’s thermal energy storage system.

The Noor Ouarzazate complex, one of the world’s largest solar power installations, comprises four facilities, with Noor III representing approximately 25% of the complex’s total energy output. Acwa Power disclosed that the interruption in Noor III’s operations, which began in March 2024, is expected to persist until November 2024, leading to an estimated revenue loss of around $47 million for the company.

In response to the technical issue, Acwa Power emphasized its commitment to swiftly address the situation and ensure the plant’s optimal performance. The company announced the commencement of repair works on the existing thermal storage tank while concurrently initiating plans to construct a new tank with enhanced design features. Leveraging insights gained from similar projects worldwide and drawing upon its extensive expertise, Acwa Power aims to implement state-of-the-art technologies to bolster the reliability and efficiency of the Noor III plant.

Despite the operational setback, Acwa Power remains steadfast in its dedication to providing sustainable and innovative energy solutions that contribute to global energy transition efforts. The company reiterated its confidence that the ongoing improvements at the Noor III facility will reinforce its position as a pioneering source of renewable energy, not only in Morocco but also on a global scale.

The Noor III plant’s significance extends beyond its operational capacity, as it plays a crucial role in Morocco’s renewable energy goals. With ambitions to increase renewable energy’s share in its power generation mix to 52% by 2030, Morocco has heavily invested in solar and wind energy projects. However, challenges such as technical issues and cost disparities have underscored the complexities inherent in transitioning to renewable energy sources.

The temporary halt in operations at the Noor III plant underscores the importance of continuous monitoring, maintenance, and innovation in the renewable energy sector. As Acwa Power endeavors to address the technical issues and enhance the performance of the Noor III plant, stakeholders in the energy industry closely observe developments, highlighting the critical role of renewable energy in addressing global energy needs while navigating technical and operational challenges.