Analysts highlight Morocco’s pioneering climate action in the MENA region

Morocco is pioneering climate action in the MENA region, its increasing clean energy investments are not going unnoticed, as they’re being described by international experts as “unprecedented.”

Analysts are describing Morocco’s climate strategy as a “role-model status” to international media outlets.

Morocco was for long projected to suffer significantly from the long-term effect of climate change, especially in the agricultural and fisheries sectors, which employ half of the population and account for 14% of its gross domestic product (GDP).

However, the kingdom’s preemptive policies have set a new global standard, according to analysts.

Renewables now cover approximately two-fifths of the country’s electricity needs, and various fossil fuel subsidies have been replaced with solar and wind energy production plants.

Morocco has lifted all governmental subsidies for diesel, gasoline, and heating oil, aiming to generate 52% of its national electricity through renewable sources by 2030, 20% from solar energy, 20% wind, and 12% hydropower.

According to available data, this goal may become a reality sooner than the government’s targeted deadline, as figures show that by 2024, the country can reach these results if the current pace is maintained.

Morocco is currently the only Arab nation that meets the international warming target of 1.5°C, according to the Climate Action Tracker.

As one of the regions expected to be most affected by climate change, the MENA region’s efforts to counter the crisis remain modest.

Many of the region’s economies remain highly dependent on fossil fuel exports, despite being disproportionately at risk from climate change impacts.

Morocco is now playing the role of a role model country, which can be upscaled across the region through efficient partnerships and effective cooperation, to get Arab and African countries on track.