Morocco cuts gas imports from Spain as renewable energies expand

Morocco has reduced imports of natural gas delivered through Spain as the North African country increases its reliance on renewable energy and continues efforts to diversify energy suppliers and sources, Middle East Online reported on May 25.

The decline comes despite stronger energy cooperation between the two countries following the diplomatic dispute between Algeria and Spain that emerged after Madrid backed Morocco’s stance on the Western Sahara. Since 2022, energy ties between the two countries have expanded significantly after Algeria halted supplies through the Maghreb-Europe gas pipeline, which had crossed Moroccan territory on its route to Spain.

The interruption prompted Morocco and Spain to adopt a reverse-flow mechanism, allowing gas to be transported from the Iberian Peninsula to Morocco. However, Morocco has recently begun reducing its reliance on gas imports from Spain as part of a broader strategy to avoid reliance on a single supplier and strengthen long-term energy security. The country is pursuing ambitions to establish itself as a regional energy hub combining natural gas, renewable energy and green hydrogen development.

Morocco aims to source 52% of its total installed electrical capacity from renewable energy by 2030, a target backed by mega-projects such as the Noor Ouarzazate solar complex and rapidly expanding onshore wind farms. The country has accelerated investment in solar and wind energy projects in recent years while simultaneously expanding energy infrastructure. Authorities are also advancing plans for liquefied natural gas facilities, including floating terminals and regasification units, to secure stable supplies. Combining renewable power investment with gas infrastructure development in Morocco is expected to provide greater flexibility in managing rising electricity demand while supporting economic growth and industrial expansion.

Under its longer-term climate commitments, updated for the 2026–2035 period, Morocco plans to raise the share of renewables in its power mix to 80% by 2050.