Africa's first decarbonized power plant to be set up in Laayoune

Africa's first decarbonized power plant to be set up in Laayoune
Friday 2 February 2024 - 12:00

The National Office of Electricity and Potable Water signed a memorandum of understanding with Nareva and General Electric Vernova, marking Morocco’s first steps towards transitioning to green hydrogen, a milestone for Africa.

The project aims to decarbonize the fuel-powered power plant in Laayoune as part of the National Office of Electricity and Nareva’s plans to produce carbon-free, hydrogen-based electricity.

A feasibility study will provide solutions for producing, storing, and providing green hydrogen to the Laayoune power station. Three gas turbines will rely on this hydrogen to produce electricity during peak times.

General Electric Vernova will assist the power plant in providing electricity using 100 percent green hydrogen. This hydrogen will be produced at Nareva’s Laayoune wind farm, supporting Morocco’s renewable capacity expansion to 52 percent by 2030.

Abdel Samad Malawi, an international renewable energy expert, sees this as Morocco’s first attempt to introduce green hydrogen. This initiative aligns with Morocco’s strategy to diversify renewable energy sources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Morocco aims to produce 52 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. However, currently, it stands at 40 percent, emphasizing the need to accelerate the transition to green hydrogen.

The selection of Laayoune for this project is strategic due to existing international projects and the city’s renewable energy potential. It’s also aimed at attracting foreign investments and ensuring priority access to European markets.

add your comment

Terms of publication : Not to offend the writer, people, sacred things, or attack religions or the divine self, and refrain from racist incitement and insults.

Politics
Flash floods kill at least two across southern Morocco as roads and vehicles are swept away
Sunday 11 October 2026 - 00:12

Flash floods kill at least two across southern Morocco as roads and vehicles are swept away

Politics
Mansouri’s coalition talks enter harder phase as Oct. 20 budget deadline nears
Saturday 10 October 2026 - 20:44

Mansouri’s coalition talks enter harder phase as Oct. 20 budget deadline nears

Politics
Moroccan parties name women to lead parliamentary groups ahead of first female-led government
Saturday 10 October 2026 - 17:53

Moroccan parties name women to lead parliamentary groups ahead of first female-led government

Society
Mining worker swept away by floodwaters in Zagora found dead in Tata
Saturday 10 October 2026 - 15:40

Mining worker swept away by floodwaters in Zagora found dead in Tata