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Morocco Taps Ocean for 60% of Drinking Water by 2030
11 Jun
Summary
- Morocco aims to source 60% of drinking water from the ocean by 2030.
- Africa's largest desalination plant is under construction near Casablanca.
- The plant will be powered entirely by renewable energy from a wind farm.
As global "water bankruptcy" looms, Morocco is strategically turning to the ocean for its freshwater needs. By 2030, the nation aims to derive 60% of its drinking water from desalination.
Leading this initiative is Africa's largest desalination plant, under construction near Casablanca. This $650 million facility, expected to begin operations in phases starting February 2027, will be powered entirely by renewable energy from a dedicated wind farm in Western Sahara.
This extensive desalination program is part of a broader $14 billion national water plan. While the technology offers hope, its high cost presents challenges for widespread agricultural use, particularly for staple crops.
Morocco's strategy also addresses the environmental impact of desalination, focusing on renewable energy sources to minimize its carbon footprint. The country currently operates 17 desalination plants, with more planned or under construction.
