Morocco and Mauritania have reaffirmed plans to complete technical studies for their planned cross-border electricity interconnection by December 2026, following recent power disruptions in Nouakchott and ongoing regional energy cooperation.
Morocco and Mauritania have confirmed that technical studies for their planned cross-border electricity interconnection are progressing on schedule and are expected to be finalised before December 2026. The update follows a recent phone call between Mohamed Ould Khaled, Mauritania's Minister of Energy and Petroleum, and Leïla Benali, Morocco's Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, as reported by the Moroccan ministry.
The discussion came in the wake of two fires earlier this month that severely damaged transformer stations in Nouakchott, causing widespread and prolonged power outages across several districts of the Mauritanian capital. Morocco, through the Office national de l'électricité et de l'eau potable, provided support to Mauritania in response to the crisis, helping to stabilise electricity supply as the Mauritanian utility implemented temporary solutions and began restoring service.
Interconnection Project Advances Amid Grid Challenges
The planned Morocco-Mauritania electricity interconnection is a key element of bilateral energy cooperation, aiming to enhance grid stability and meet rising demand in Mauritania. According to the Moroccan ministry, the studies are proceeding according to the agreed timeline, with completion targeted before the end of 2026. Mauritania continues to face challenges in ensuring reliable electricity supply, making the project strategically significant for both countries.
Regional Energy Security and Next Steps
The interconnection is part of broader efforts to strengthen regional energy security and integration in North Africa and the Sahel. As Mauritania works to address its grid limitations, the project is expected to provide a more resilient supply and support economic development. For context, Mauritania has also been reviewing the performance of other critical sectors, as seen in its recent health sector assessment in Assaba (see related coverage), reflecting a wider focus on infrastructure and service delivery. The next milestone for the electricity interconnection will be the completion of technical studies, after which implementation and financing arrangements will be key issues to monitor.
