
Renewable Energy
Wind and solar parks along the coast, and some of Morocco’s largest planned green hydrogen projects.
Photo: Anass Sedrati, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0
The Atlantic coast of the south has some of the strongest and steadiest winds in Africa, and some of its most intense sunshine. Over the past decade it has become one of the centres of Morocco’s renewable energy strategy.
Wind
The Tarfaya wind farm, a joint venture between Nareva and ENGIE, began full commercial operation in December 2014. With 131 turbines and 301 MW of capacity, it was one of the largest wind farms in Africa when it opened. Other wind farms operate around Laâyoune and Boujdour, and a dedicated wind farm powers the new desalination plant north of Dakhla.
Solar
Under the national Noor programme run by Masen, photovoltaic plants were built at Laâyoune (up to 80 MW) and Boujdour (up to 20 MW). They were financed in part by Morocco’s first green bond.
Green hydrogen
In March 2025 the government selected five investor groups for six green hydrogen projects in the southern regions, with a combined announced value of MAD 319 billion. The projects focus on green ammonia, synthetic fuels and green steel. Preliminary land agreements were signed in February 2026. These are long-term projects, and their timing will depend on financing and on export markets.
Opportunities
Engineering, construction, maintenance and training services for wind and solar plants are in steady demand. Read more in Why the Atlantic coast is drawing renewable investment.
Other sectors
Fisheries
Some of the richest Atlantic fishing grounds, with octopus, sardines and a growing processing industry.
Ports & Logistics
A deep-water Atlantic port under construction at Dakhla, and a new expressway linking the south.
Phosphates & Mining
Phosphate mining at Bou Craa, linked to the coast by a conveyor belt about 100 kilometres long.
Tourism
Kitesurfing in Dakhla, desert trips, oases and heritage towns, with a growing number of direct flights.
Agriculture
Greenhouse vegetables around Dakhla, camel farming, and a desalination project to irrigate new farmland.