Morocco to double renewable energy output in Western Sahara ahead of 2030 World Cup

A Moroccan energy ministry official revealed plans this week to build 1.4 gigawatts of new wind and solar power in the disputed region of Western Sahara by 2027, according to Bloomberg.

This initiative will nearly double the area’s current renewable energy capacity. Additionally, a 3-gigawatt power cable project that will connect the green energy sites in Western Sahara to central Morocco has drawn interest from private investors, including those from France.

The energy expansion comes as Morocco prepares to meet increased electricity demand ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which it will co-host. 

The project is expected to cost around 21 billion dirhams ($2.1 billion) and will be financed by both local and international private investors, said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the issue.

The status of Western Sahara remains contentious. The phosphate-rich territory, almost the size of the UK, is claimed by Morocco, which currently controls around 80% of the land and asserts historical rights to the region. Several countries, including the U.S., France, and Spain, recognize Morocco’s claims. 

However, the indigenous Sahrawi Polisario Front, supported by Algeria, continues to fight for independence. The U.N. has long advocated for a referendum to resolve the dispute.