Morocco’s ambitious National Energy Strategy (SEN) 2009-2030 is facing significant hurdles in meeting its objectives for renewable energy, energy security, and efficiency, according to the 2023-2024 annual report by Morocco’s Supreme Council of Auditors.
The strategy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and boost renewable energy has progressed in some areas but continues to face governance issues and implementation delays, the report stated.
Morocco’s renewable energy sector has been growing steadily, with renewables making up 40% of the electricity mix as of 2023, up from 32% in 2009. However, the country missed its 2020 goal of 42%. Delays in project execution and limited electric transmission capacity have slowed progress, leaving private-sector proposals “stuck in limbo.”
The government over the past decade has introduced several reforms to modernize the electricity sector and attract private investment. Law 13.09 opened the door for private companies to produce and sell electricity. In 2016, regulators created the National Electricity Regulation Authority under Law 48.15.
Despite the steps, authorities have yet to finalize critical reforms, such as unbundling the electricity production, transport, and distribution functions of the National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE).
Energy efficiency also remains underdeveloped. Officials drafted national strategies in 2014 and 2019 but never approved them, leaving measures such as financial incentives for businesses and consumers unimplemented. Gaps in legal frameworks and limited funding have further stalled progress.
The SEN’s failure to develop other energy sources, such as nuclear power and biomass, has left Morocco with fewer options to enhance its energy security.
In 2023, Morocco’s strategic oil reserves fell below the required 60 days, averaging just 31 to 37 days for key products like gas and butane. The country also made little headway in diversifying import routes for petroleum products, completing only one new entry point since 2009 at Tangier Med port.
Efforts to establish a national natural gas strategy remain incomplete despite multiple initiatives launched since 2011. The lack of a concrete plan has hindered Morocco’s ability to reduce its dependence on coal for electricity production.
Governance issues are also compounding the challenges. Between 2010 and 2023, ONEE’s board held only five of its 28 required meetings. State-owned energy firms rarely operate under formal agreements with the government.
The delayed transfer of renewable energy assets from ONEE to the Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (MASEN) has further complicated the landscape, with the operation three years behind schedule as of the end of 2023.
The Supreme Council of Auditors has urged leaders to address these obstacles. Its recommendations include approving a national energy efficiency strategy, improving oversight of oil reserves, accelerating reforms in the electricity sector, and creating a comprehensive framework for natural gas development.
While Morocco has made strides in renewable energy and regional integration, achieving its energy transition goals will require decisive action to close these gaps and deliver on its ambitious targets.