New solar initiative expands Morocco’s renewable energy capacity

According to an article published by the government friendly website The North Africa Post, Morocco has launched the Noor Atlas photovoltaic solar program, a large renewable energy initiative that will install six solar power plants across the country with a total capacity of 305 megawatts.

The project officially began with the signing of power purchase agreements and the start of construction work on the different solar facilities. The initiative is being developed through a partnership between the Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (MASEN) and the National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE), two key institutions responsible for advancing Morocco’s renewable energy strategy.

The Noor Atlas program will include six photovoltaic plants located in several provinces: Jerada, Errachidia, Figuig, Boulemane, Tata, and Tan-Tan. By spreading the installations across different regions, the project aims not only to expand Morocco’s renewable electricity production but also to improve the reliability of power supply in areas that have sometimes experienced weaknesses in the electricity grid.

Under the project structure, the Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy will oversee the development, financing, construction, and long-term operation of the solar plants. The program follows an engineering, procurement, and construction framework that allows the agency to manage all phases of the project, from building the infrastructure to maintaining it once operational.

Financing for the Noor Atlas program combines several sources of funding. Concessional loans are being provided by Germany’s development bank KfW as well as the European Investment Bank. Additional commercial financing is coming from the Bank of Africa. This mix of international development funding and private sector investment reflects the financing model Morocco has used for several of its renewable energy initiatives.

Construction will be carried out by consortiums bringing together Moroccan and European companies. Officials say this approach is designed to strengthen local expertise in renewable energy technologies while supporting the development of Morocco’s domestic industrial sector. The collaboration is also expected to create employment opportunities in the regions where the solar plants will be built.

Once completed, the Noor Atlas solar facilities are expected to begin producing electricity in July 2027. The plants will generate renewable power for the national grid while helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

The launch of the program further reinforces Morocco’s position as one of Africa’s most advanced markets for clean energy development. Through projects like Noor Atlas, the country continues to expand its renewable energy capacity while supporting its broader transition toward more sustainable electricity production.

The North Africa Post, Maghrebi.org.