IEA: Morocco aims to generate majority of power from renewables by 2030

Morocco has set a target to raise the share of renewable energy in its electricity mix to 52% by 2030, according to the International Energy Agency, placing the country among African states with clearly defined clean energy goals.

The agency cited Morocco alongside countries such as South Africa, which has phased renewable targets, Kenya with long-term energy policies, Ethiopia with a strong focus on hydropower, and Ghana, which aims to expand non-hydro renewable sources. Senegal and Nigeria are also seeking to increase the role of renewables in their national electricity plans.

The IEA said Morocco’s target reflects a sustained commitment to transforming its energy system, but warned that across Africa a wide gap remains between stated renewable ambitions and available investment.

The agency noted that expanding electricity access while modernizing power generation and transmission networks is increasingly urgent as populations grow and energy demand rises. To meet projected needs, Africa would need to add about 24 gigawatts of new electricity capacity each year through 2035, with more than 70% of that capacity coming from renewable sources, primarily solar photovoltaic.

Achieving those goals will require major investment in transmission and distribution infrastructure, the IEA said. The continent may need to add nearly 190,000 kilometers of power lines annually through 2035, representing an increase of almost 40% from current expansion rates.

For Morocco and other African countries, the agency said, ambitious renewable energy targets must be matched by practical planning and sustained investment in power networks.

Globally, electricity is becoming the central driver of the energy transition, the IEA said. While overall energy demand is growing more slowly than in previous decades, emerging and developing economies account for most of the increase, while demand in advanced economies remains broadly stable or slightly declines.

The shift toward electricity is being driven by industrialization, electric transport, and the growing use of electric heating and cooling systems, the agency added.

Morocco’s Noor Ouarzazate solar complex continues to serve as a flagship project, highlighting the country’s push to expand clean and sustainable energy production.