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Morocco-Germany Power Link Hits $30B Snag
22 Jul
Summary
- A $30 billion project aims to link Morocco and Germany via undersea cables.
- Disagreements over structure and guarantees are delaying the Sila Atlantik project.
- Moroccan authorities seek intergovernmental agreement and two-way power flow.
A significant renewable energy initiative, Sila Atlantik, intended to connect Morocco and Germany through a massive undersea power cable, is currently experiencing delays. This ambitious project, valued at $30 billion, aims to establish the world's longest intercontinental power link. The plan involves laying two high-voltage subsea cables spanning approximately 4,800 km.
These cables would be powered by up to 15 gigawatts of solar and wind energy generated in Morocco. However, the project has encountered obstacles due to disputes over its fundamental structure and the guarantees required. Moroccan authorities are reportedly insisting on a formal intergovernmental agreement, backed by the German state, to ensure long-term commitment.
Furthermore, Morocco desires the infrastructure to support a two-way flow of electricity, not solely for export. While technically feasible, this feature is considered to increase economic costs. Moroccan officials have yet to allocate the land previously promised for similar projects, adding to the uncertainty surrounding Sila Atlantik's development.
Despite these challenges, Sila Atlantik stated that it is progressing according to its roadmap. The project developers are evaluating various technical and regulatory options for long-term growth. Morocco, meanwhile, continues to enhance its energy interconnections with Europe, underscoring its commitment to regional energy integration and transitioning towards renewable sources.
