Morocco: A Step Further Towards Modernizing Its Energy Infrastructure with the Construction of Three Natural Gas Thermal Power Plants
Morocco is poised to take a significant step forward in modernizing its electrical infrastructure. By 2026, three new gas-fired thermal power plants will be commissioned in strategic regions across the Kingdom. This initiative, led by the National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE), aims to add between 300 and 450 megawatts (MW) to the national energy capacity amidst rising demand and strains on the grid.
ONEE has announced an international call for expressions of interest to attract global engineering and energy giants. The project will be executed through EPC contracts (engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning), allowing Morocco to partner with leading firms in the construction of these state-of-the-art facilities. The new plants will be equipped with internal combustion engines powered by natural gas, whether in compressed or liquefied form, operating in simple cycle and allowing for rapid start-up. This technical architecture aims to provide a high level of responsiveness to demand fluctuations, particularly during peak consumption periods.
The three sites selected for the power plants are: Mohammedia on the Atlantic coast, Kénitra in the north, and Aïn Beni Mathar in the Oriental region. This geographical distribution addresses two primary objectives: improving territorial coverage and alleviating pressure on currently strained areas of the national grid. Consequently, these new installations will enhance the resilience of the electrical system, particularly in regions with significant industrial and demographic development.
Although based on thermal technology, these plants stand out for their high energy efficiency and adherence to environmental standards. The thermal efficiency will exceed 45%, a remarkable figure for this type of infrastructure. Moreover, the modularity of the units—configured in redundant modules of 100 to 150 MW—will offer substantial operational flexibility and better adaptation to local climatic conditions, thanks to specially calibrated cooling systems.
This project aligns with the profound transformation of Morocco’s energy mix, which is actively pursuing the large-scale deployment of renewable energy sources (solar, wind, hydropower). These thermal power plants will complement these energy sources by offsetting their natural intermittency. They will play a critical role in ensuring a stable and swift energy supply, particularly during extreme weather conditions that widen the gap between production and consumption.
Through this initiative, ONEE confirms its strategy to diversify the national energy portfolio. The integration of natural gas aims to secure energy supply, enhance the flexibility of the electrical system, and reduce the country’s carbon footprint. This choice aligns perfectly with Morocco’s international commitments to combat climate change.
With these new projects, the Kingdom aims to reinforce national energy sovereignty and create a robust, responsive, and sustainable energy system. The commissioning of these plants, slated for 2026, will mark a key milestone in consolidating a controlled and inclusive economic development.
