Morocco is positioning itself as a leading player in the global energy transition, with the ambition of reaching 52% renewable energy in its energy mix by 2030. This ambitious strategy is attracting the attention of international investors, particularly from the UK, in a context where the United Kingdom is seeking to diversify its sources of sustainable energy to address its energy crisis.
The Xlinks Project: A Technological and Diplomatic Feat
At the heart of this collaboration is the Xlinks project, an initiative led by Dave Lewis, former CEO of Tesco. This project aims to transport solar and wind energy produced in the southern provinces of Morocco, such as the Tan-Tan region, to the United Kingdom via a 4,000-kilometer submarine cable, an unprecedented length. This network will directly connect Morocco to Devon, in the southwest of England, providing 8% of British energy needs, equivalent to powering 9 million households.
This project goes beyond strictly energy-related frameworks. By harnessing the potential of the southern provinces, it contributes to their economic development while strengthening bilateral ties between Morocco and the United Kingdom. Some even see it as a step towards potential recognition by London of Moroccan sovereignty over the Sahara.
A Win-Win Partnership
For the United Kingdom, this project addresses both energy imperatives and the need to forge strategic relationships with reliable partners like Morocco. The latter, already recognized for iconic achievements such as the Noor Ouarzazate solar complex, aims to double its renewable energy production capacity in its southern provinces to reach 2.7 gigawatts by 2027.
For Morocco, Xlinks embodies a unique opportunity to leverage its natural resources while consolidating its position on the global energy stage. In parallel, this partnership could encourage the United Kingdom to further support Moroccan interests, particularly regarding the Sahara issue.
A Shared Vision for a Sustainable Future
The submarine cable linking Tan-Tan to Devon will not just be a conduit for electricity. It will symbolize a strategic cooperation between two nations driven by a common vision of innovation and sustainability. In addition to considerable energy benefits, this project offers promising diplomatic and economic prospects, reinforcing Morocco’s role as a key partner in the European energy transition.
As the construction progresses, Xlinks is emerging as an inspiring model for future international collaborations. This ambitious project could mark a new era in relations between Morocco and the United Kingdom, placing green energy at the center of their strategic partnership.