Morocco “will not subsidize green hydrogen projects on its territory unless they demonstrate their economic viability and their capacity to provide renewable molecules at competitive prices on international markets”warned Leïla Benali, Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, on Wednesday January 22.
Speaking before a parliamentary committee on the national energy strategy and the Moroccan supply of green hydrogen, Mr.me Benali confirmed that twelve projects are being evaluated to benefit from land allocation as part of the “Morocco Offer”, launched in 2022. One project has already been authorized while the others could access lots ranging from 100 to 300 square kilometers for a total of one million hectares made available by the State.
Responding to MPs who raised doubts about conflicts of interest around certain energy projects, notably the desalination of Casablanca water and the management of water resources, the minister invoked in-depth studies: “These studies refute these allegations and are based on joint observations from private investors and public institutions”she said.
She also mentioned delays in the implementation of certain energy projects, such as public lighting, which she attributed to “political and electoral differences”. “Since 2011, Morocco has adopted structuring strategic and political choices, notably advanced regionalization and the expansion of the powers of local authorities. These orientations are our references, and they are not debatable”she stressed.
-During the session, the Justice and Development Party (PJD, opposition), criticized the growing role of private actors in infrastructure projects, describing a company involved as “fourth ally of the government”. Mme Benali replied firmly: “Whatever your opinion on seawater desalination, there is consensus on the need for action in the face of persistent drought.”
Asked about the recent criticisms issued by the Court of Auditors concerning anomalies in the energy transition, the minister insisted on the transparency of the government. “We work closely with constitutional institutions and act on the basis of solid economic data. These recommendations allow us to correct our actions and strengthen our strategic projects”she said.
Returning to the state of investments in energy infrastructure, Mme Benali expressed concerns about the lack of planning in 2021: “This lack of programming alerted us, but we rectified the situation in 2022, in coordination with our partners.” She concluded by saying that the government’s objective is clear: “Providing green, clean, low-cost energy.”
