UN 
- Morocco launched a $310 million wind farm in the southern Sahara.
- The country targets 42% renewable electricity generation by end-2026.
- Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (Masen) is leading the project.
Morocco’s new wind farm, located near Dakhla in the southern Sahara, is expected to contribute significantly to the country’s renewable energy ambitions over the next three years. According to details released in June 2024 by the Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (Masen), the project will add 200 megawatts to the national grid upon completion.
The government’s energy strategy, originally adopted in 2009, seeks to reach a national electricity mix comprising 42% renewables by 2026. As of 2023, renewables accounted for approximately 37% of Morocco’s electricity generation, with solar and wind projects making up the majority. The Dakhla wind farm is part of a larger $3 billion portfolio to scale up renewable capacity and decrease reliance on imported fossil fuels.
The project’s funding package involves both public and private investment, including support from international financial institutions such as the African Development Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development. Implementation will be closely monitored, with annual progress reports mandated under Morocco’s national climate action framework. Experts caution that while the 2026 target is ambitious, success will depend on timely grid integration and transparent project delivery, not merely headline-grabbing announcements.
Skepticism remains within the sustainability sector regarding the pace of actual renewable deployment versus government pledges. SDG Talking’s analysis of the latest project pipeline suggests that while the new wind farm is a step forward, Morocco will need to accelerate grid modernization and local content requirements to ensure lasting impact and avoid perceptions of greenwashing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the expected output and timeline for the new wind farm?
The Dakhla wind farm is designed to deliver 200 megawatts of electricity to Morocco’s national grid, with construction set to begin in late 2024 and full commissioning targeted for late 2026. The project forms part of a broader strategy to reach 42% renewable generation by that year.
How will the wind farm help Morocco achieve its SDG and climate goals?
The wind farm directly supports SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action) by increasing renewable power generation and reducing Morocco’s carbon footprint. It also aligns with the country’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions for emission reductions.
Are there concerns about transparency or greenwashing related to this project?
While the government and Masen have outlined clear reporting requirements, stakeholders have raised concerns about project delivery versus announcements. Annual progress reports will be key in assessing whether tangible impact matches official pledges and avoids greenwashing claims.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is Morocco investing in the new wind farm near Dakhla?
Morocco is investing $310 million in the new wind farm project near Dakhla in the Sahara Desert.
What is the capacity of the new wind farm and when will it be operational?
The Dakhla wind farm will have a capacity of 200 megawatts, with construction starting in late 2024 and full commissioning targeted for late 2026.
What percentage of Morocco’s electricity currently comes from renewables?
As of 2023, renewables made up about 37% of Morocco’s electricity generation.
Which organizations are supporting the funding of the Dakhla wind farm?
The project is supported by the African Development Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, alongside public and private investment.
What is Morocco’s renewable electricity target for 2026?
Morocco aims to reach 42% renewable electricity generation by the end of 2026.
