Morocco-German Symposium: Integration of Electricity Markets between Morocco and Europe

On June 3, 2025, a high-level symposium held in Rabat by the German Embassy in Morocco and the Moroccan-German Energy Partnership (PAREMA) brought together key actors in the energy transition from diverse backgrounds: ministries, national agencies, research institutions, industry professionals, students, and European experts.

This event, part of the Climate Talks series, served as an interdisciplinary platform for dialogue on the prospects of market integration and green electricity exchange between Morocco and the European Union.

The event was hosted by Mohammed V University of Rabat, represented by Dr. Ismail Kassou, Acting Dean of the Faculty of Legal, Economic and Social Sciences, who welcomed the participants. The symposium was moderated by Dr. Rabii El Bacha.

In her opening remarks, H.E. Dr. Leila Benali, Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, emphasized the strategic importance of market and electricity grid integration for Morocco. Ms. Benali noted that the integration of electricity networks and markets, particularly through interconnections, has been the third pillar of Morocco's energy strategy since 2009, and that:

“This integration aims not only to improve supply security and enhance price competitiveness, but also to offer increased flexibility to the grid operator to facilitate the large-scale integration of renewable energy and to pool the potential of various technologies.”

The Minister also stressed the importance of Euro-Moroccan cooperation in this field, made possible thanks to a shared vision. She concluded by reaffirming the Kingdom's commitment to promoting effective and sustainable partnerships.

The German Ambassador to Morocco, H.E. Robert Dölger, praised the Kingdom's ambitious vision. He recalled that the PAREMA partnership, launched in 2012, illustrates the strength of bilateral cooperation between the two countries. As the energy transition extends beyond technical dimensions, he emphasized the need to create an enabling ecosystem for green electricity trade:

“Interconnection and green electricity trade projects with Morocco are becoming particularly necessary. But there will be no transport of electrons without a regulatory framework, economic incentives, technical standards, or certification of origin. This requires the involvement of all stakeholders.”

Professor Dr. Dörte Fouquet, a European energy law expert, provided valuable insights on the legal foundations necessary for successful integration. She also underlined the importance of a harmonized regulatory framework and transparent access for private producers. Prof. Dr. Fouquet commended Morocco's progress in accounting and legislation to facilitate future market integration and encouraged continued Euro-Moroccan cooperation on interconnection.

Mr. Yasser Mouhami, Director of Planning and Control at MASEN, presented progress in renewable energy development, citing in particular the Noor Ouarzazate solar complex and the Nassim Koudia Al Baida wind farm.

Dr. Samir Rachidi, Director General of IRESEN, highlighted innovations in storage, grid digitalization, and green hydrogen, showcasing Morocco’s existing potential as a green energy producer. He also presented various options for exporting electricity and hydrogen from Morocco to Europe, comparing them in terms of cost and outlining the necessary technological prerequisites.

The discussions also highlighted the need to harmonize legislative frameworks and strengthen cooperation between European and Moroccan law faculties.

The symposium reaffirmed the need for a shared vision, ongoing dialogue, and strong political commitment. The event concluded with a shared desire to strengthen exchanges between public, private, and academic stakeholders.