The 16th Energy Conference, held in Ouarzazate under royal patronage, was an opportunity for Leïla Benali, Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, to advocate for a strengthened convergence between energy and water policies, at a time when climate, agricultural, and geopolitical issues are more intertwined than ever.
Crossing Approaches to Build Sovereignty
Under the theme “Energies: Strategic Pillar of Water Security and Sustainable Development,” the meeting brought together public officials, experts, international partners, and private stakeholders. They all share a common ambition: to build sustainable energy and water sovereignty for Morocco.
In her speech, Ms. Benali emphasized the increasing inseparability of water, energy, and food security issues. She reminded that the Kingdom began its energy transition more than fifteen years ago, under the constant impetus of King Mohammed VI. Since then, investments in electrical infrastructure have increased fivefold, and those in renewable energies have quadrupled, indicating a marked acceleration.
Focus on Gas and International Synergies
Leïla Benali also highlighted the synergies in international cooperation, notably citing projects carried out with France in the field of green hydrogen, electrical interconnections, and industrial decarbonization. Gérard Mestrallet, envoy of the French president, was among the distinguished guests present in Ouarzazate.
Finally, the minister announced the launch of a call for expressions of interest (AMI) for the establishment of gas infrastructure, subtly revealing the creation of a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal at Nador West Med. This terminal will be connected to the Maghreb-Europe gas pipeline and will ultimately supply industrial zones as far as Kénitra and Mohammedia. All of this will be part of a broader architecture, oriented towards the Atlantic, with the future terminal in Dakhla in sight.