Energy minister announce a surge in renewables as mining sector gets an overhaul

 Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development Leila Benali told the House of Advisors earlier this week that Morocco’s mining sector contributes 7-10% of its GDP and 28% of its national exports, playing a vital role in national, regional, and territorial development.

Despite its economic contribution, the minister said the sector struggles to improve the added value of mined materials amid increasing social and environmental demands and inherent risks in mining areas.

The government is taking steps to address these issues, including amending the legal framework to keep pace with developments, completing a draft law to supplement Law 33.13 on mines, and establishing a national committee for strategic and critical minerals. 

The government is also simplifying administrative procedures, including licensing, prioritizing local employment through a focus on local skilled workers, and classifying industrial rocks and minerals to avoid confusion between the Mining Law and the Quarry Law. 

She also said that a review and adaptation of the organizational structures of institutions like the National Office of Hydrocarbons and Minerals is underway.

To promote responsible exploration and development Moorocco is outlining  measures that  include geological mapping and geophysical surveys in promising areas, establishing a digital system for accessing exploration data, and intensified field monitoring of mining projects, particularly concerning license withdrawal and reopening for exploitation. 

In response to concerns about specific mining activities, Benali acknowledged the need for a comprehensive vision to address issues like congestion and health concerns.

Spaking on energy investments, Leila Benali highlighted the final stages of launching an expression of interest for gas infrastructure development and the imminent ratification of a new gas law.

While Morocco currently invests $400 million annually, this needs to rise to $1 billion to maintain and expand energy supplies. 

 A Moroccan strategy for attracting investments in gas exploration, leading to investments in Tandrara and Larache, is also in place. 

Efforts to develop the gas value chain and infrastructure are ongoing, and Morocco has seen success in attracting foreign investment in gas exploration, specifically in Larache.

Shifting focus to renewable energy, Benali emphasized Morocco’s commitment with a current capacity of 5,000 megawatts and plans for an additional 7,500 megawatts by 2027.