Ouarzazate Solar Complex Delivers 65% of Morocco’s Peak Demand During Heatwave

• Ouarzazate Solar Complex met 65% of Morocco’s peak demand in June 2024.
• Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (MASEN) is the project operator.
• Morocco targets 52% renewables in electricity mix by 2026.

The Ouarzazate Solar Complex, known as Noor Power Station, is located in the Drâa-Tafilalet region of central Morocco and is one of the world’s largest concentrated solar power (CSP) facilities. MASEN reported that, on June 18th and 19th, the complex provided up to 1.9 GW of output—supplying 65% of the country’s total peak electricity needs as temperatures soared above 47°C.

Morocco’s national grid has faced rising stress in 2024 due to recurring heatwaves, which pushed electricity demand to record levels. The robust performance of the Ouarzazate facility—supported by molten salt storage allowing night-time generation, helped prevent brownouts in several urban and industrial centers. This reliability is a key test as Morocco seeks to reach its 52% renewable electricity target by 2026, up from 37% in 2023, according to the Ministry of Energy Transition.

While Morocco has announced high-level renewable energy ambitions, delivery remains under scrutiny. Independent grid observers, including the International Energy Agency (IEA), note that the Ouarzazate complex is among the few projects consistently meeting output targets since its commissioning in 2016. However, progress toward nationwide grid upgrades and renewable integration lags; only 42% of announced solar capacity has reached operational status as of June 2024.

Amid increasing international focus on climate adaptation, the Ouarzazate Solar Complex’s record output supports both SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). Experts caution, however, that a single facility’s strong performance does not substitute for systemic grid modernization and diversified renewable investments, both required if Morocco’s 2026 targets are to be credibly met.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much electricity does the Ouarzazate Solar Complex produce?

The Ouarzazate (Noor) Solar Complex has an installed capacity of 580 MW and, with storage, can supply up to 1.9 GW during peak periods. In June 2024, the facility delivered 65% of Morocco’s peak national demand, especially during high temperatures when demand spiked sharply.

What is Morocco’s renewable energy target for 2026?

Morocco’s official renewable energy target, set by the Ministry of Energy Transition, is to achieve 52% of electricity generation from renewables by 2026. As of June 2024, renewables contribute approximately 37% to the grid; progress depends on accelerating project delivery and grid modernization.

How reliable are Morocco’s clean energy projects overall?

While flagships like Ouarzazate consistently deliver on output, independent assessments indicate that less than half of announced solar capacity is operational. Delays in grid upgrades and integration pose ongoing delivery risks, making continued monitoring and transparent reporting essential.