- Morocco approves $32.5 billion in green hydrogen projects to produce ammonia, steel, and industrial fuel.
- Key players include Ortus in the U.S., Acciona in Spain, Nordex in Germany, and others like UAE Taqa and UEG in China.
- Morocco will offer up to 30,000 hectares of land per project to boost renewable exports to the EU and increase renewables’ share to 52% by 2030.
Morocco has approved green hydrogen projects worth 319 billion dirhams ($32.5 billion) to focus on producing ammonia, steel, and industrial fuel. A Moroccan government committee announced on Thursday, March 6.
Key international companies will lead these initiatives. According to the prime minister’s office, the United States Ortus, Spain’s Acciona, and Germany’s Nordex will produce green ammonia. However, the statement did not provide specifics on project timelines or funding.
Other companies received approval for additional projects. The UAE’s Taqa and Spain’s Cepsa will partner to produce ammonia and fuel, while Morocco’s Nareva plans to produce ammonia, fuel, and steel. Saudi Arabia’s Acwa Power will focus on steel production, and Chinese firms UEG and China Three Gorges will collaborate on ammonia production.
After signing preliminary agreements, Morocco will allocate up to 30,000 hectares of land for each project. The government aims to develop the green hydrogen sector as part of its strategy to meet domestic energy needs and boost exports to the European Union.
The European Union, through its Green Deal, plans to reduce carbon emissions by importing 10 million tons of renewable hydrogen by 2030. Morocco sees this as an opportunity to increase its hydrogen exports.
In 2024, Morocco allocated 300,000 hectares for renewable energy projects integrating electricity generation and green hydrogen conversion into ammonia, methanol, and synthetic fuels.
Several international companies have already partnered with Morocco on green hydrogen initiatives. In October, France’s TotalEnergies signed a deal to develop green hydrogen in the country. French energy firm Engie also partnered with Morocco’s phosphate and fertiliser giant OCP to produce ammonia from green hydrogen.
Morocco aims to boost renewable energy as part of its broader energy transition. The government seeks to increase renewables’ share to 52% of total installed capacity by 2030 from the current 45%.
These new projects will play a critical role in helping Morocco achieve its renewable energy goals. The government plans to position Morocco as a global leader in green hydrogen production.
Morocco’s geographical advantages, such as abundant sunlight and wind, make it an ideal location for renewable energy projects. The government seeks to leverage these natural resources to develop a green hydrogen economy, reduce its carbon footprint, and enhance energy security.
Morocco contributes to global efforts to combat climate change through this green hydrogen initiative. The shift to renewable energy aligns with international efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and transition from fossil fuels.
As Morocco continues to expand its green energy infrastructure, the country positions itself as a key player in the global green hydrogen market. The newly approved projects represent a significant step in that direction.