Casablanca – In recent years, Morocco has emerged as a significant player in the global energy market, particularly in the field of natural gas. With strategic partnerships, advanced infrastructure, and a robust demand for energy, Morocco is not only increasing its gas imports but is also positioning itself as a key energy partner for Europe. The evolving energy landscape, marked by shifting geopolitical dynamics and rising energy demands, has propelled Morocco into a central role in the energy transition of the Mediterranean region.

Morocco’s growing role in the European gas market

In 2024, Morocco became the largest importer of Spanish natural gas, surpassing traditional European customers like France and Portugal. According to data from the Spanish Corporation of Strategic Petroleum Reserves (Cores), Morocco imported 9,703 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of gas through the Maghreb-Europe pipeline, a crucial energy link between Morocco and Spain. This figure represents a significant increase compared to previous years and places Morocco at the forefront of energy importation in the region. To put this into perspective, France imported 9,362 GWh and Portugal, 4,056 GWh, further illustrating Morocco’s growing influence in the energy sector.

Infrastructure and strategic partnerships

Despite not being a major producer of gas itself, Morocco’s energy infrastructure has become an essential part of the Mediterranean’s gas distribution network. The Kingdom benefits from the advanced gas infrastructure in Spain, which includes two major pipelines – Medgaz and Maghreb-Europe – as well as six regasification plants and underground storage facilities. These facilities make Spain a critical hub for the import and export of natural gas and liquefied natural gas (LNG), and Morocco’s proximity to Spain enhances its role as a vital player in European energy supply chains.

In addition to the Maghreb-Europe pipeline, which connects Morocco to Spain, Morocco’s strategic geographic location further strengthens its potential as an energy hub. It serves as a critical link in the energy supply chain, particularly in meeting the energy demands of both its own growing population and Europe’s increasing gas needs.

Morocco’s increasing energy demand and growth prospects

The increase in gas imports reflects Morocco’s rapidly growing energy needs, driven by both domestic consumption and industrial expansion. In 2024, Morocco imported 886 million cubic meters of gas, a 3% increase over the previous year’s 861 million cubic meters. This growing demand is partly fueled by the country’s commitment to diversifying its energy sources and reducing reliance on traditional fossil fuels. However, despite increasing imports, Morocco’s long-term goal is to reduce its dependence on external gas sources through strategic investments in local energy production and renewable sources.

The Kingdom’s energy consumption reached its peak during the third quarter of 2024, with 252 million cubic meters of gas imported. This increase can be attributed to the summer months, where energy demand spikes due to heightened use of air conditioning and cooling systems. The increased demand highlights the necessity for Morocco to ensure a stable and diversified energy supply, especially in the face of fluctuating international gas prices and geopolitical instability.

A vision for energy independence

Looking toward the future, Morocco is working toward greater energy independence by investing in renewable energy projects and diversifying its energy sources. The Kingdom has already made significant strides in this direction, particularly in the areas of solar and wind energy, which have great potential for future energy production. Morocco’s commitment to becoming a green energy powerhouse in Africa is reflected in its ambitious renewable energy goals, which aim to generate 52% of the country’s energy from renewables by 2030.

In addition to domestic renewable energy production, Morocco is also focusing on expanding its natural gas infrastructure. A landmark project that is expected to enhance Morocco’s role as a key energy player is the proposed pipeline linking Nigeria to Morocco. This project, which has the support of several African nations, will enable Morocco to tap into the vast natural gas reserves of Nigeria and become a major energy supplier to Europe. The Nigeria-Morocco pipeline will significantly enhance Morocco’s position as a key energy exporter and strengthen its growing ties with Europe.

Strengthening Morocco-Spain energy relations

The energy cooperation between Morocco and Spain has been one of the most significant developments in recent years. With its world-class infrastructure and strategic location, Spain has become Morocco’s primary partner in the energy sector. In 2024, Spain exported a total of 36,084 GWh of gas, with Morocco receiving 26.8% of this total. This marks a notable shift in energy trade relations, as Morocco surpassed traditional clients like France and Portugal.

The increase in Moroccan gas imports from Spain is also tied to the evolving geopolitical landscape. The diplomatic tensions between Algeria and Morocco, which led to the cessation of gas flows through the Maghreb-Europe pipeline in 2021, have led Morocco to seek alternative energy sources. Through its partnership with Spain, Morocco has found a reliable and stable energy supply while further strengthening its energy ties with Europe. Spain, in turn, benefits from Morocco’s increasing energy needs, reinforcing the mutual dependence between the two nations.

Morocco’s strategic energy position

Morocco’s role in the energy sector is evolving rapidly, and its growing importance as a gas importer and potential exporter marks a significant shift in the Mediterranean’s energy landscape. With strong infrastructure, a growing demand for energy, and strategic investments in renewable sources, Morocco is positioning itself to become a key energy hub for Europe and Africa. As the country works toward greater energy independence, its partnerships with Spain and other European nations will be crucial to its continued growth and success in the energy sector. Ultimately, Morocco’s energy future looks promising, with the potential to become a leading player in the global energy market in the decades to come.