Renewable energy consultancy OWC has been tasked by the European Investment Bank (EIB) to spearhead a consortium that will conduct a thorough feasibility study for Morocco’s first offshore wind farm. This significant project is backed by the Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (MASEN) and will primarily focus on the Atlantic coast near Essaouira.
The consortium assembled by OWC includes a diverse range of marine, environmental, and wind specialists, alongside engineering and project management firms from Africa, Europe, and Morocco. Notable members of this consortium include PHENIXA, part of the Ginger Group, Gaïa Terre Bleue, NOVEC, and SOFECO, which is also affiliated with the Ginger Group.
Significance of the Feasibility Study
Hakim Mouslim, OWC’s regional director for Europe and Africa, described the initiative as a pivotal moment in Morocco’s and Africa’s renewable energy landscape. He stated, “Together with our consortium partners, OWC supports EIB and MASEN in every aspect of this pioneering project – from market analysis and technical assessments to geoscience, offshore wind design, and marine logistics.” This underscores the comprehensive approach being taken to ensure the project’s success.
The feasibility study is set to span two years and is being conducted under a contract with the EIB, funded through the Facility for Euro-Mediterranean Investment and Partnership (FEMIP) Trust Fund. The scope of the study is extensive, covering various critical aspects such as the offshore wind market and supply chain, site selection, wind resource assessment based on a meteorological measurement campaign, offshore wind farm concept design, and logistics related to ports.
Key Areas of Focus
In addition to the aforementioned areas, the study will also delve into risk analysis and the regulatory framework governing offshore wind projects in Morocco. It will include assessments of grid impact and integration, conducted in collaboration with Moroccan grid specialists, as well as detailed marine advisory services and environmental and social impact assessments.
OWC plans to leverage its offshore wind and engineering expertise from teams based in France, the UK, and Germany. Furthermore, ABL will contribute its marine expertise and experience in ports and harbours, enhancing the consortium’s capabilities. Both OWC and ABL are part of the global consultancy Aqualis, which adds further depth to the project’s technical resources.
Background and Future Prospects
This feasibility study builds on several years of groundwork laid by the EIB and MASEN to explore the potential for offshore wind development in Morocco. In September 2022, a cooperation agreement was signed between EIB and MASEN, which included a EUR 2 million grant aimed at financing a feasibility study for an initial small-scale offshore wind pilot project in the country.
In 2024, the EIB initiated a tender for a two-year technical assistance contract that would encompass feasibility studies and environmental and social impact assessments for a potential project off the coast of Essaouira. Although the procurement process faced challenges, including a cancellation in July 2024, it was subsequently relaunched, indicating ongoing commitment to the project.
By June 2025, Morocco’s ambitions for offshore wind energy had progressed to a proposed 1 GW project near Essaouira, with construction anticipated to commence by 2029. This initiative has been identified for support through the Blue Mediterranean Partnership, highlighting its significance in regional energy strategies.
Potential and Future Developments
According to estimates from the World Bank Group, Morocco possesses a substantial technical offshore wind potential of approximately 200 GW. This includes around 22 GW deemed suitable for fixed-bottom technology and an impressive 178 GW for floating wind technology. Such figures underscore the vast opportunities that lie ahead for Morocco in harnessing offshore wind energy.
As the feasibility study progresses, it will play a crucial role in determining the viability of Morocco’s first offshore wind farm, setting the stage for future developments in the country’s renewable energy sector. The successful implementation of this project could not only contribute to Morocco’s energy independence but also position the nation as a leader in renewable energy within the region.
Source: Offshore Wind
