Casablanca – Morocco is solidifying its position as a key energy hub, bridging Europe, Africa, and the Atlantic. The country is becoming a vital corridor for the transit and certification of green energy molecules and electrons, aligning its ambitious energy strategy with global carbon reduction targets and governance standards.

This strategic vision was underscored by Morocco’s Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, Leila Benali, at the annual CERAWeek conference in Houston, United States. During her speech, she highlighted Morocco’s pivotal role in fostering energy connectivity between continents.

A strategic energy corridor for Africa and Europe

Speaking at the global energy event, Minister Benali emphasized Morocco’s crucial role in facilitating the transit and certification of green energy sources. She stated that “the creation of a bi-directional energy corridor between Europe and Africa could provide access to clean energy for 400 million African consumers,” underscoring the potential for economic growth and deeper intercontinental cooperation.

This vision aligns with Morocco’s broader ambitions to drive the energy transition in Africa. The country is leveraging its strategic geographical position and vast renewable energy potential to develop large-scale projects that will serve both local and international markets.

The Xlinks project: A game changer for Europe’s green energy future

One of the most ambitious projects underpinning Morocco’s energy ambitions is Xlinks, a groundbreaking initiative that will connect Morocco’s renewable energy sources with the United Kingdom via an extensive 3,800-kilometer high-voltage subsea cable.

Estimated at a cost of $28-30 billion, Xlinks will enable the direct supply of 100% renewable energy from Morocco’s vast solar and wind farms to the UK. Once operational in 2026, it is projected to power approximately 7 million British homes, contributing significantly to the country’s decarbonization efforts.

This monumental infrastructure will require over 90,000 tonnes of steel to construct the undersea cable, presenting both technical and logistical challenges. Nevertheless, the economic benefits for Morocco are substantial. The project is expected to generate more than 2,000 permanent jobs in strategic sectors, including renewable energy engineering, cable manufacturing, and infrastructure maintenance.

Morocco’s leading role in the global energy transition

Beyond Xlinks, Morocco is at the forefront of the renewable energy revolution. The country has already made major investments in solar and wind energy, with projects like the Noor Ouarzazate solar complex, one of the largest of its kind in the world. These efforts position Morocco as a reliable supplier of clean electricity to Europe while also addressing Africa’s growing energy needs.

Additionally, Morocco is leveraging its geographical advantage to establish the Africa-Atlantic Gas Pipeline, another key infrastructure project. Beyond supplying natural gas to Europe, this pipeline is envisioned as a future transport route for green hydrogen, reinforcing the continent’s transition to sustainable energy sources.

Global recognition and future prospects

The strategic significance of Morocco’s energy role was recognized by the British government, which classified the Xlinks project as a “project of national importance.” This reflects the growing demand for reliable, renewable energy in the UK and Europe as they seek to reduce carbon emissions and ensure energy security.

With its vast renewable energy potential, ambitious infrastructure projects, and strategic location, Morocco is well on its way to becoming a leading supplier of clean energy. The country’s commitment to green energy not only supports European climate goals but also fosters industrial growth, economic development, and technology transfer, strengthening Morocco’s role as a critical energy partner on the global stage.

As the world accelerates its transition towards renewable energy, Morocco’s efforts could serve as a model for international cooperation in sustainable energy development. The Xlinks project and the Africa-Atlantic Gas Pipeline are just the beginning of what promises to be a transformative era for the kingdom’s energy sector, reinforcing its position as a leading global player in the clean energy transition.