Morocco Selects Five Companies for $32 Billion Green Hydrogen Projects in Desert Region
On March 6, 2025, Morocco announced a $32 billion investment in six green hydrogen projects, partnering with five international consortia to enhance its renewable energy sector. Focusing on green ammonia and industrial fuels, these projects aim to decarbonize the economy, create jobs, and strengthen Morocco's global energy market presence.
hassan benyoub 
March 6, 2025 – Morocco has tapped five international consortia to spearhead six ambitious green hydrogen projects in its desert landscape, with a staggering total investment of 319 billion Moroccan dirhams (approximately $32 billion USD). These initiatives aim to position the North African nation as a global leader in sustainable energy, focusing on the production of green ammonia, industrial fuels, and steel.
The selected companies, spanning the United States, Europe, the Middle East, and China, will leverage Morocco’s abundant solar and wind resources to drive the projects. Below is a breakdown of the winners and their designated roles:
1. ORNX Consortium
- Companies: Ortus (USA), Acciona (Spain), Nordex (Germany)
- Focus: Production of green ammonia
2. Taqa-Cepsa Alliance
- Companies: Taqa (UAE), Cepsa (Spain)
- Focus: Green ammonia and industrial fuels
3. Nareva
- Company: Nareva (Morocco)
- Focus: Green ammonia, industrial fuels, and green steel
4. Acwa Power
- Company: Acwa Power (Saudi Arabia)
- Focus: Green ammonia
5. UEG-CTG Alliance
- Companies: UEG (China), CTG (China)
- Focus: Green ammonia
Morocco’s Green Energy Ambition
These projects align with Morocco’s broader strategy to decarbonize its economy and capitalize on its renewable energy potential. The desert regions, with their vast expanses and optimal conditions for solar and wind power, provide an ideal setting for large-scale green hydrogen production. Green hydrogen, produced using renewable energy to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, is increasingly seen as a key solution for reducing carbon emissions in heavy industries like steelmaking and shipping.
The $32 billion investment underscores Morocco’s appeal to global energy giants, bolstered by its political stability and strategic proximity to Europe. The involvement of Moroccan firm Nareva highlights the country’s push to retain a stake in this transformative sector, while international players like Acwa Power and Nordex bring technical expertise and financial heft.
Economic and Environmental Impact
Once operational, these projects are expected to create thousands of jobs, boost export revenues, and solidify Morocco’s role in the global green energy market. The production of green ammonia—a critical component for fertilizers and industrial applications—could also reduce reliance on fossil fuel-based alternatives, cutting greenhouse gas emissions significantly.
As the world races to meet net-zero targets, Morocco’s desert hydrogen hubs could serve as a blueprint for other sun- and wind-rich nations. However, challenges such as water scarcity in the desert and the high costs of scaling hydrogen technology remain hurdles to overcome.
With this bold move, Morocco is not only betting on a greener future but also strengthening its position as a pivotal player in the global energy transition.
