Written by: Faith Jemosop
The Casablanca Desalination Plant has secured €340 million in financing, marking a significant step towards enhancing water security in Morocco. This project, set to be the largest desalination facility on the continent and the world’s largest powered entirely by renewable energy, is a collaborative effort between Spanish and Moroccan entities.
The Casablanca Desalination Plant, located in Lamharza Essahel, El Jadida province, is poised to produce 300 million cubic meters of potable water annually. This capacity is sufficient to supply clean drinking water to approximately 7.5 million residents in the Casablanca region, including areas such as Settat, Berrechid, and Bir Jdid . The facility’s integration of renewable energy sources underscores Morocco’s commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.
Consortium and Financial Backing
The project is spearheaded by the Al Baidaa Desalination Company consortium, comprising:
- ACCIONA: Holding a 50% stake, this Spanish multinational brings extensive experience in infrastructure development.
- Green of Africa: A Moroccan renewable energy firm with a 45% share, contributing local expertise and resources.
- Afriquia Gaz: Also Moroccan, holding the remaining 5%, known for its role in energy distribution.
Spain’s financial commitment includes a €250 million loan from the Fund for Business Internationalisation (FIEM), a €70 million loan backed by CESCE (Spain’s export credit agency), and €31 million from FIEX, managed by COFIDES, to support ACCIONA’s share .
Renewable Energy Integration
A distinguishing feature of the Casablanca Desalination Plant is its reliance on renewable energy. The facility will be powered by the 360MW Bir Anzarane wind farm, which will dedicate nearly half of its output to the plant’s operations . This integration ensures a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to addressing water scarcity.
Project Timeline and Impact
Construction of the plant is currently 20% complete, with the first phase expected to be operational by February 2027, delivering 548,000 cubic meters of water daily. The second phase is slated for completion by August 2028, increasing the daily output to 838,000 cubic meters .
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Beyond providing drinking water, the plant will support agricultural activities by supplying water for irrigation, thereby contributing to food security and economic development in the region.
Strategic Significance
The Casablanca Desalination Plant aligns with Morocco’s National Drinking Water Supply and Irrigation Program 2020-2027, aiming to produce 1.7 billion cubic meters of drinking water by 2030 . Currently, only 320 million cubic meters are available, highlighting the project’s critical role in bridging the gap.
Spain’s involvement underscores the strong bilateral relations between the two countries, with the project serving as a testament to their collaborative efforts in addressing environmental challenges and promoting sustainable development.
