Morocco exploring nuclear energy to support future power supply

Morocco is exploring the possibility of developing nuclear energy to produce electricity as part of its long-term energy strategy, Moroccan government-friendly Yabiladi reported on 10 March.

Prime Minister Aziz Akhannouch, speaking at the Second World Nuclear Energy Summit in Paris, said the responsible and gradual integration of civil nuclear energy into Morocco’s energy sector would represent a natural extension of the country’s broader energy policy.

Morocco launched an integrated energy strategy in 2009 based on three pillars: diversifying energy sources, expanding renewable energy and strengthening national energy security.

Several options for nuclear power are under consideration as electricity demand rises. Nuclear energy expected to develop alongside the country’s growing renewable energy sector.

Nuclear energy could also support projects beyond electricity generation, including green hydrogen production, seawater desalination, nuclear medicine and food security.

Morocco’s phosphate reserves contain significant quantities of natural uranium, giving the country an advantage in international discussions on nuclear energy.

The country already operates a research nuclear reactor at the National Centre for Nuclear Energy, Sciences and Techniques in Maamora near Rabat. The facility is used for scientific research, medical applications and training programmes.

Institutions responsible for nuclear safety and radiation protection have been established to oversee regulatory frameworks linked to nuclear technology.

Morocco also emphasised the importance of international cooperation in the nuclear field, with the prime minister noting that the country is a party to international agreements on disarmament and non-proliferation.

Renewable energy projects, particularly solar and wind power, have received major investment in recent years as Morocco works to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels.

Renewable energy accounted for more than 46% of Morocco’s electricity capacity at the end of 2025 and is expected to reach 52% before 2030. The government aims for renewables to produce a majority of electricity by then.

 

Yabiladi, Maghrebi.org