Casablanca – The Moroccan National Office of Electricity and Water (ONEE) has advanced its plans to connect the country’s southern and central regions through an ambitious high-voltage electric line linking Dakhla to Casablanca. This strategic infrastructure project, estimated to cost over $2 billion, has attracted the attention of five major global energy players: GE Vernova (USA), Siemens Energy (Germany), Power China SEPCO1 (China), TBEA (China), and Larsen & Toubro (India).
The project involves constructing a 3-gigawatt (GW) ultra-high-voltage line spanning approximately 1,400 kilometers. It is seen as a crucial step for Morocco’s energy transition, enhancing its capacity to transport renewable energy across regions. The implementation will occur in two phases, with the first 1,500-megawatt phase commencing upon finalization of the project timeline. The second phase, with the same capacity, is now slated for completion in 2029, a change from the previously targeted date of 2028.
A new tender process
To attract top international expertise, ONEE has adopted a dual tendering approach—Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) and Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) models. This change follows several postponements since October 2023, with bid deadlines extended seven times. Under the current timeline, EPC bids were opened on November 15, 2024, while BOOT model proposals will be reviewed on December 23, 2024.
The addition of the EPC option responds to industry interest in a more streamlined approach focused on construction. In contrast, the BOOT model requires contractors to finance, develop, and manage the project through its lifecycle. ONEE’s strategy aims to enhance the project’s appeal by offering flexibility around cost efficiency, quality standards, and timeline commitments.
Strategic importance
The electric highway underscores Morocco’s commitment to developing renewable energy infrastructure and boosting energy security. The high-voltage connection will enable the transmission of renewable energy from the south to central regions, strengthening supply for critical projects, such as large-scale desalination plants.
This strategic initiative represents a milestone in Morocco’s energy development and is expected to play a key role in the nation’s broader goals for sustainable growth and infrastructure improvement. The coming months will determine which international operator secures the EPC contract, setting the stage for a transformative project in Morocco’s energy landscape.
