The Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) and the OCP Group join the ranks of the main partners of the “Climate Impulse” project. This ambitious project aims to achieve a non-stop, emission-free round-the-world flight by 2028, aboard an aircraft powered by green hydrogen.
The signing of this partnership agreement took place on Friday in Benguérir, in the presence of the famous explorer Dr. Bertrand Piccard, president of “Climate Impulse,” and Dr. Ilham Khadri, CEO of Syensqo, the project’s first main partner.
The development of this aircraft began in 2022, with research and feasibility studies conducted in collaboration with industry leaders. Since 2024, Syensqo’s involvement has accelerated the development and construction phases, under the leadership of Mr. Raphaël Dinelli, engineer and co-pilot of Climate Impulse alongside Dr. Piccard.
In parallel, the OCP Group is partnering with Fortescue to promote green energy in Morocco, particularly green hydrogen and ammonia, intended for both energy applications and the production of carbon-neutral fertilizers.
UM6P and the OCP Group will play a crucial role in addressing the technical challenges of the Climate Impulse project, particularly the management of extreme temperatures to maintain liquid hydrogen at -253°C during the planned nine days of flight. They will also be involved in designing suitable thermal tanks and exploring innovative solutions to ensure the success of this initiative.
This collaboration highlights Morocco’s potential as an emerging leader in green hydrogen and its commitment to developing sustainable solutions on a global scale.
Dr. Bertrand Piccard stated: “Beyond the first non-stop, emission-free round-the-world flight with a hydrogen aircraft, the Climate Impulse project aims to bring together leaders of innovation to promote climate action in the economic, industrial, and educational sectors. The involvement of the OCP Group and UM6P will enable significant advancements and the integration of many students into this project, thus placing innovation at the service of sustainability.”
Ms. Hanane Mourchid, Chief Sustainability & Innovation Officer of the OCP Group, added: “Climate Impulse is a pioneering effort in the technological development necessary for decarbonization. We are proud to contribute to this project that demonstrates the opportunities of a decarbonized economy through green hydrogen.”
Dr. Ilham Kadri, CEO of Syensqo, emphasized: “We are honored to welcome the OCP Group and UM6P into the Climate Impulse project. Their expertise complements our collaboration with the Solar Impulse Foundation, offering promising international synergies for this hopeful project.”
Mr. Hicham El Habti, President of UM6P, concluded: “Participating in the Climate Impulse project is a unique opportunity for our researchers and students to work on pioneering solutions to climate challenges. We are determined to play a key role in promoting sustainability through innovation and research.”