Morocco to double green energy output in W. Sahara by ’27

Morocco aims to double green electricity production in Western Sahara by 2027, setting a target of 1.4 gigawatts of new wind and solar capacity to meet rising demand ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.

The project, expected to cost around 21 billion dirhams ($2.1 billion), will be led by local and international investors, according to a government source.

The plan comes amid increased foreign recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the disputed region, with support from France, Spain, and the US. Western Sahara’s current green power capacity is about 1.3 gigawatts, nearly a quarter of Morocco’s total renewable capacity.

A 3-gigawatt cable project linking renewable plants in Western Sahara to central Morocco has also drawn investor interest. France announced funding for the initiative in April, just months before recognising Morocco’s claim to the territory.

The Polisario Front, backed by Algeria, is expected to oppose Morocco’s new energy investments, citing the exploitation of Western Sahara’s resources.