Morocco has a strong potential for renewable energy. According to a study by Fraunhofer, a research institution on systems and innovation, the country’s renewable energy production capacity is sufficient to completely defossilise its electricity production, and to produce enough PtX fuels to meet both local and export demands. Hybrid locations with both wind and solar potential are best suited for the intensive electricity production for Power-to-X. 

Initial Power-to-X activities are underway in the private sector in Morocco, particularly in the local fertiliser industry. The goal is to produce enough synthetic ammonia (Power-to-Ammonia) to meet the needs of the national fertiliser industry and thus reduce its dependence on imports.  Morocco houses nearly 80% of global phosphate reserves, a key element for the fertiliser industry, which has great economic importance for the country. 

Power-to-Liquid technologies complementing the Moroccan energy transition

The strong potential for both wind and solar energy makes Morocco the ideal country to build a Power-to-Liquid (PtL) pilot plant. In 2022, the Wuppertal Institute published a study on the potential of a “Power-to-X“ economy in Morocco. A demonstration unit is planned to illustrate the entire Power-to-Liquid value chain and allow Moroccan and international scientists and engineers to become familiar with these technologies, including the Fischer-Tropsch synthesis, refining, and electrolysis. The objective of the pilot plant is to facilitate the development of a Power-to-Liquid market, to disseminate practical knowledge about Power-to-X, and to create momentum for future projects on an industrial scale. As in the case of ammonia, these projects can reduce import dependence and supply a potential export market. 

The PtX Hub in Morocco

Beyond our role in finding financing mechanisms and supporting the construction of the Power-to-Liquid pilot plant, the PtX Hub’s work in Morocco also includes: 

• Advising on the development of a regulatory framework to stimulate the growth of Power-to-X markets, with particular attention to sustainability dimensions. 

• Integrating Power-to-X into energy scenario modeling and national contributions to the Paris climate targets (NDCs). 

• Identifying potential business cases for investors and the necessary measures to implement them. 

We aim for sustainability throughout the value chain to ensure sustainable economic development. 

If you are interested in the work of the PtX Hub in Morocco, contact: Matthias Rilling.