A shining example of green energy in Morocco
A shining example of green energy in Morocco EY
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Expanding Renewable Energy in Morocco: The Noor Ouarzazate Project
Introduction
The Noor Ouarzazate project in Morocco is a significant initiative that aims to expand the country’s renewable energy sources and promote sustainable development. This report highlights the importance of this project in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and emphasizes the potential impact it can have on Morocco’s economic growth and infrastructure development.
Background
The Noor Ouarzazate project consists of two major plants, Noor Ouarzazate II and Noor Ouarzazate III, which are yet to come online and start supplying energy to the national electricity grid. However, the project’s potential impact can already be observed in Morocco. The cost of PV solar cells has significantly decreased in recent years, making it more affordable for ordinary people in Morocco. The success of Noor Ouarzazate is expected to encourage further investment in Concentrated Solar Power (CSP) technology, leading to future cost reductions.
Sustainable Development Goals
- Goal 1: No Poverty
- Goal 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
- Goal 13: Climate Action
- Goal 17: Partnerships for the Goals
Impact on Economic Growth
Expanding the reliability, availability, and affordability of energy supplies in Morocco is crucial for the country’s future economic growth. With a significant portion of the population living in poverty and a large young population seeking employment opportunities, modern infrastructure development is essential. Access to electricity and internet connectivity are vital tools for overcoming infrastructure challenges in remote areas of developing countries.
Cost Reduction and Accessibility
The decreasing cost of PV solar cells has made renewable energy more affordable and cost-effective than conventional sources like coal. This cost reduction has benefited various sectors, including religious institutions, telecommunication companies, and remote communities that previously lacked access to electricity.
Risk Management and Challenges
- Managing risks associated with major infrastructure projects like Noor Ouarzazate is a significant challenge.
- Overcoming aversion to risks is crucial for the success of innovative projects.
- The price of renewables needs to be competitive with conventional energy sources to fight climate change effectively.
Local Skill Development and Knowledge Sharing
Noor Ouarzazate aims to demonstrate the viability of CSP plants and their ability to deliver reliable renewable energy even during periods of limited sunlight. The project also focuses on developing local skills and improving infrastructure while sharing knowledge with other countries interested in similar projects. Collaboration between public and private sectors is essential for achieving inclusive growth and building a better working world.
Conclusion
The Noor Ouarzazate project showcases the importance of taking a big-picture view and fostering collaboration between various stakeholders. By addressing energy, environmental, and industrial challenges, this project contributes to achieving multiple SDGs. The success of Noor Ouarzazate will not only reduce carbon emissions but also boost economies, improve communities’ well-being, and drive inclusive growth.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
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SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- Target 7.1: By 2030, ensure universal access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy services
- Indicator 7.1.1: Proportion of population with access to electricity
- Indicator 7.1.2: Proportion of population with primary reliance on clean fuels and technology
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SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
- Target 9.1: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure
- Indicator 9.1.1: Proportion of the rural population who live within 2 km of an all-season road
- Indicator 9.1.2: Passenger and freight volumes, by mode of transport
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SDG 13: Climate Action
- Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning
- Indicator 13.2.1: Number of countries that have integrated mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction, and early warning measures into national policies, strategies, and planning
Analysis
The article discusses the Noor Ouarzazate project in Morocco, which aims to expand the availability and affordability of energy supplies in the country. This aligns with SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy, which focuses on ensuring universal access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy services. The project aims to reduce energy costs and provide access to electricity in remote communities, addressing Target 7.1 of SDG 7.
The article also highlights the importance of infrastructure development for economic growth and overcoming poverty. This relates to SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure, which aims to develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure. The Noor Ouarzazate project contributes to this goal by improving energy infrastructure in Morocco.
In terms of climate action, the article mentions the need to reduce the price of renewables and fight climate change. This aligns with SDG 13: Climate Action, which aims to take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts. The Noor Ouarzazate project demonstrates the potential of concentrated solar power (CSP) plants to deliver reliable renewable energy, even when the sun is not shining, contributing to Target 13.2 of SDG 13.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy | Target 7.1: By 2030, ensure universal access to affordable, reliable, and modern energy services | Indicator 7.1.1: Proportion of population with access to electricity Indicator 7.1.2: Proportion of population with primary reliance on clean fuels and technology |
| SDG 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure | Target 9.1: Develop quality, reliable, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure | Indicator 9.1.1: Proportion of the rural population who live within 2 km of an all-season road Indicator 9.1.2: Passenger and freight volumes, by mode of transport |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning | Indicator 13.2.1: Number of countries that have integrated mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction, and early warning measures into national policies, strategies, and planning |
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Fuente: ey.com
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