Morocco is emerging as a key player in the growing green hydrogen sector, aiming to become a top producer in North Africa with an eye on exporting this clean energy source to Europe. Leveraging its existing solar power infrastructure, Morocco intends to use green hydrogen in its substantial fertilizer industry and is allocating around 1.5 million acres of land for green hydrogen and ammonia production. The nation has also introduced a comprehensive green hydrogen plan called “l’Offre Maroc” and seeks rapid implementation.
Morocco’s move into green hydrogen has attracted investment interest from Australian, British, French, German, and Indian companies. While hydrogen has faced challenges due to storage and transport difficulties, it is considered crucial for decarbonizing energy-intensive industries like steel, cement, and chemicals.
Morocco’s green energy infrastructure, including solar and wind, currently makes up 38% of its energy production, with a goal to reach 52% by 2030. However, green hydrogen production remains more expensive than conventional hydrogen production methods. Morocco is aiming to keep green hydrogen production costs below $1-$2 per kilogram. Water scarcity is another challenge, with plans to increase seawater desalination to support green hydrogen production.
Morocco faces competition in the green hydrogen sector from other North African countries like Egypt, Mauritania, and Algeria. Business consultants predict that North Africa could become the world’s largest green hydrogen-exporting region by 2050, potentially reshaping global energy dynamics. Algeria, with its significant solar and wind energy potential and existing gas infrastructure, is also aiming to become a major green hydrogen producer. Tunisia is interested in joining the green hydrogen market, contingent on expanding its renewable energy production.
As these North African countries advance their green hydrogen ambitions, they could significantly impact the global energy landscape and contribute to reducing carbon emissions.
