Morocco faces gas supply disruptions, turns to coal to meet power demand

Morocco has experienced sharp disruptions in gas supplies after flows via Spain were halted for four consecutive days, following an earlier interruption on March 27, Attaqa reported on March 30, citing North Africa Risk Consulting (NARCO).

The disruption has pushed Morocco to increase reliance on coal, a cheaper and more readily available alternative for power generation.

Gas flows to Morocco via Spain were cut for several days last week before partially resuming at below-normal levels. Supplies returned on March 25 at around 20% below normal, before falling further the following day to less than a quarter of typical volumes amid ongoing operational pressures.

Supplies were disrupted again on March 27, with limited flows resuming on March 28, according to the report.

The decline has unsettled Morocco’s energy balance, particularly as domestic electricity demand rises. Authorities have responded by increasing coal usage to maintain power generation during peak periods.

Gas imports via Spain fell by around 20% in March, reflecting continued strain on regional supply chains. Morocco relies heavily on regasified LNG imported through Spain and transported via the Maghreb–Europe pipeline.

The disruption has also highlighted Morocco’s limited gas storage capacity, constraining its ability to absorb supply shocks. Officials are now seeking spot LNG cargoes to offset shortages.

Despite the recent volatility, Morocco’s gas imports rose by 22.3% year-on-year (y/y) in January 2026. However, continued instability may prompt a strategic reassessment of supply sources amid broader geopolitical pressures affecting global energy markets.