Fortescue's ambitious clean power plans in Morocco

A new report suggests that Fortescue, the UK-based firm led by Andrew Forrest, is pursuing a transformative power link project aimed at connecting Europe and North Africa. This initiative, detailed by the Telegraph, could see Morocco emerge as a crucial hub for the transmission of clean energy.

The proposed project seeks to harness up to 100 gigawatts of renewable energy generated from solar farms across North Africa, potentially delivering around 500 terawatt-hours of electricity annually to European nations. This staggering amount of energy is equivalent to Germany's total annual consumption, underscoring the project’s significance in the context of Europe’s energy needs.

Forrest, in a recent interview, emphasized the vast untapped energy resources in North Africa, stating, “You’ve got the most impossible amount of energy being wasted every single day in North Africa right now.” He further clarified that the energy supplied through this initiative would not be intermittent but would provide consistent, baseload power capable of meeting demand around the clock.

This development comes in the wake of a significant blackout that affected Spain and Portugal, highlighting the pressing need for reliable energy solutions in the region. The blackout not only disrupted daily life but also impacted telecommunications in Morocco, affecting operators like Orange.

Forrest has expressed a desire for his company to operate without relying on government subsidies, aiming instead to establish a market-driven approach to energy supply. “I want Ed to say, ‘we’ll buy X at market [prices],’” he remarked, indicating his confidence in the viability of the project.

While the Telegraph did not explicitly state that Morocco is Fortescue’s primary focus, the publication referenced the existing Xlinks project, which aims to connect Morocco to the UK through a network of solar and wind farms. This project, positioned in the Guelmim Oued Noun region, is designed to include a substantial battery storage system to enhance energy reliability.

Morocco has been increasingly recognized as a leader in renewable energy, with significant investments in solar power, exemplified by the Noor Ouarzazate Solar Power Station. This facility, renowned for its capacity to power large cities, has garnered international attention and supports the nation’s goal of achieving at least 52% of its energy capacity from renewable sources by 2030.

In conclusion, the burgeoning interest from Fortescue in Morocco reflects the country’s established reputation in the renewable energy sector and its strategic position in linking North Africa with European markets. As discussions continue and plans develop, the potential for Morocco to play a pivotal role in the clean energy landscape becomes ever more apparent.