Renewable energy industry leaders weighed in on the Maghreb region’s solar and wind sectors participating in a survey conducted by Green Power Conferences.
Over a two-week period, the surveys were completed by over 165 representatives spanning the renewable energy sector. The group asked people to “highlight their area of interest solar and/or wind power” with professionals from Germany making up the largest number with 31% followed closely by respondents from North Africa at 30%. Other areas represented were Italy (18%), Spain (16%), rest of Europe (26%), and the rest of the world (25%).
The renewable energy haven for the Maghreb seems to be Morocco with survey participants seeing the most potential in its solar and wind. Over 45% of the respondents believing that Morocco was the number one place for solar energy potential and investments with Algeria and Egypt garnering 20% each. The survey reported over two-thirds of the participants stating that Morocco had the most potential for growth in the wind energy over the next two years.
Morocco has many solar projects are underway including the Ouarzazate solar complex. The 160-MW solar power plant will be a part of the Desertec Industrial Initiative and reached financial close in late-November. While Algeria is picking up its renewable energy speed, Egypt was previously Morocco’s main North African competitor in the renewable energy field; however, the continuous political instability has placed Egypt and its renewable energy ambitions on the back burner.
Do you have any thoughts on the renewable energy scene in North Africa? Send your comments to lgraves@AE-Africa.com
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