Casablanca – Mitsubishi Power, a key subsidiary of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), has secured a significant contract to supply two cutting-edge M701JAC gas turbines and auxiliary equipment for the Al Wahda Open Cycle Gas Turbine Power Plant. This landmark project, in partnership with Morocco’s National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE) and China Energy Engineering Corporation Limited (CEEC), aims to enhance the stability of Morocco’s national power grid and support the country’s ambitious renewable energy goals.

Strategic importance of the Al Wahda Power Plant

Located near the Al Wahda Dam in the Ouazzane Province in northern Morocco, the Al Wahda Power Plant is poised to become a cornerstone of Morocco’s evolving energy landscape. The plant will play a pivotal role in stabilizing the national grid, particularly as Morocco continues to integrate an increasing share of renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power. Designed as a peaker plant, it will provide rapid-response capabilities to manage fluctuations in power supply and demand, ensuring a continuous and reliable electricity supply across the country.

Once operational in 2027, the facility’s two advanced gas turbines will generate a combined output of 990 megawatts, representing nearly 7% of Morocco’s total national grid capacity. This significant contribution will help meet the country’s growing energy demands while supporting its strategic objective of achieving over 52% renewable energy in its electricity mix by 2030.

Advanced technology for a sustainable future

The M701JAC gas turbines supplied by Mitsubishi Power represent the latest in gas turbine technology. These turbines are renowned for their high efficiency, reliability, and capability to co-fire hydrogen with natural gas. This feature not only supports current energy needs but also aligns with Morocco’s long-term sustainability and decarbonization goals. The flexibility to incorporate hydrogen into the fuel mix offers a future-proof solution as the global energy sector transitions towards greener alternatives.

Moreover, these turbines are engineered to handle rapid load variations and frequent start-stop cycles, making them ideal for balancing the intermittency associated with renewable energy sources. Their robust design ensures operational excellence, even under demanding conditions, thereby safeguarding the integrity of Morocco’s energy infrastructure.

Partnerships driving energy transformation

The contract was officially signed at ONEE’s headquarters in Rabat, with key figures in attendance, including ONEE’s leadership and senior executives from Mitsubishi Power and CEEC. This collaboration highlights the strong international partnerships that are driving Morocco’s energy transformation.

Javier Cavada, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Power for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, expressed his enthusiasm about the project: “Partnering with ONEE and CEEC on the Al Wahda Power Plant underscores our commitment to advancing Morocco’s energy infrastructure. Our M701JAC turbines will provide reliable, efficient power, supporting Morocco’s renewable energy ambitions while ensuring grid stability.”

Similarly, Lyu Zexiang, President of China Energy International Group Corporation Limited (CEIG), a subsidiary of CEEC, emphasized the significance of the partnership: “The Al Wahda project is a landmark initiative. By leveraging cutting-edge technology, we are confident that this power plant will set new benchmarks in operational efficiency and sustainability, serving as a cornerstone for Morocco’s energy future.”

Long-term commitment to operational excellence

Beyond the initial supply of equipment, Mitsubishi Power has also entered into a long-term service agreement with ONEE. This comprehensive arrangement covers the provision of spare parts, maintenance services, and technical support, ensuring the sustained reliability and efficiency of the power plant throughout its operational life.

ONEE’s leadership highlighted the strategic importance of the Al Wahda Power Plant in Morocco’s energy roadmap. “This project is a vital step in our energy strategy,” a representative stated. “Mitsubishi Power’s advanced technology will not only help us meet growing energy demands but also facilitate the integration of more renewable energy sources into our grid.”

A milestone in Morocco’s energy journey

The Al Wahda Power Plant project marks a significant milestone in Morocco’s pursuit of a sustainable, resilient energy future. It reflects the country’s proactive approach to diversifying its energy mix, enhancing grid stability, and meeting environmental commitments. Mitsubishi Power’s involvement in this transformative project underscores its dedication to supporting clean, efficient power generation across the Middle East and North Africa region.

As Morocco continues to navigate its energy transition, projects like Al Wahda exemplify the synergy between technological innovation, strategic partnerships, and sustainable development. This initiative not only strengthens Morocco’s energy security but also sets a precedent for future collaborations in the global energy sector.