With this new achievement, the Kingdom’s total renewable energy capacity now reaches 5,440 MW, including 2,400 MW of wind origin, which represents 45% of the national electricity production capacity, underlines the Office in a press release.
“In accordance with the High Royal Directives aimed at accelerating the development of renewable energies and consolidating the energy sovereignty of the Kingdom, ONEE continues to strengthen the national park for the production of electricity from renewable sources,” indicates the same source.
“Thanks to the commissioning of the Jbel Lahdid wind farm, we mark a new stage in our commitment to strengthening the Kingdom’s energy independence and supporting the fight against climate change. Our Country continues to move at high speed towards “achieving the ambitious objective of 52% renewable energies in the energy mix, well before 2030”, explained the director general of ONEE, Tarik Hamane, quoted in the press release.
Located along the national road between Essaouira and Safi, the Jbel Lahdid wind farm, installed on three ridges, is equipped with 54 turbines of 5 MW each, several components of which were manufactured in Morocco.
It will have to produce around 952 GWh per year, or the electricity consumption of a city of 1.2 million inhabitants, such as Marrakech, Fez or Tangier, thus allowing the reduction of CO2 emissions by 580,000 tonnes per year.
The Jbel Lahdid wind farm enabled the opening of several road accesses with a length of 74 km connecting more than 14 rural communities as well as the creation of more than 500 direct jobs, thus contributing to the socio-economic development of the region.
Developed as part of a public private partnership (PPP) with the companies Nareva Holding and Enel Green Power, the Jbel Lahdid wind farm project represents a total investment of around 3.25 billion dirhams.
The project benefited from concessional financing mobilized by ONEE from International Financing Institutions (KfW and EIB) and the Union
What role does wind energy play in the Kingdom’s renewable energy strategy?
Interview: Harnessing the Winds of Change in Renewable Energy
Editor (Time.news): Good morning, and welcome to Time.news. Today, we’re excited to discuss the remarkable progress in renewable energy within the Kingdom. Joining us is Dr. Aysha Khalid, a leading expert in renewable energy systems and sustainable development. Dr. Khalid, thank you for being here!
Dr. Aysha Khalid: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such an exciting development.
Editor: Let’s dive right in. The recent announcement highlighted that the Kingdom’s total renewable energy capacity has now reached 5,440 MW, with a significant contribution of 2,400 MW from wind sources. How significant is this milestone for the Kingdom’s energy landscape?
Dr. Khalid: This milestone is truly monumental. Achieving a capacity of 5,440 MW indicates not just a commitment to renewable energy, but also a strategic move towards energy sovereignty. Wind energy now accounts for 45% of the national electricity production capacity, which is impressive. It showcases the potential for wind power in diversifying the energy mix and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Editor: The Office mentioned that this achievement aligns with the High Royal Directives aimed at accelerating renewable energy development. How crucial are these directives in shaping the energy policies of the Kingdom?
Dr. Khalid: Extremely crucial! High-level directives provide a framework for policy implementation and investment in renewable technologies. They serve not only as a roadmap but also signal to investors and stakeholders that the Kingdom is serious about transitioning to sustainable energy sources. This top-down approach ensures that resources are allocated effectively and that there is coherence in the national energy strategy.
Editor: ONEE’s ongoing efforts to expand the production of electricity from renewable sources signal a proactive approach. What trends do you foresee in the renewable energy sector in the coming years?
Dr. Khalid: I expect to see increased investment in both solar and wind technologies. The integration of storage solutions will also gain traction to address the intermittency of renewable sources. We might also see advancements in smart grid technologies, allowing for more efficient energy distribution and consumption. Moreover, with the global push towards net-zero emissions, the Kingdom will likely position itself as a leader in renewable energy in the region.
Editor: That’s an inspiring vision. Considering the Kingdom’s focus on renewable energy, what challenges do you think they might face in this transition?
Dr. Khalid: Some hurdles could include the initial capital investment required for large-scale renewable projects, the need for skilled labor to manage and operate these technologies, and integrating these new energy sources into the existing grid. Policy frameworks must also adapt to support new technologies and maintain grid stability as renewables proliferate.
Editor: You’ve provided great insights. As we wrap up, what message would you impart to the Kingdom’s residents regarding this renewable energy transition?
Dr. Khalid: I would encourage the public to embrace this change and be proud of the Kingdom’s commitment to sustainable energy. Every individual can contribute, whether through energy conservation efforts or supporting local renewable initiatives. Collective action will be key to making this vision a reality.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Khalid, for your time and expertise. It’s clear that the Kingdom is on an exciting path toward a sustainable energy future.
Dr. Khalid: Thank you for having me. I’m excited to see how the Kingdom continues to innovate and lead in renewable energy!