The Moroccan government has included in its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) a coal phase-out date set for 2040, conditional on international support. Without such support, the phase-out will occur during the 2040s. This marks the first official timeline announced by Morocco, which joined the Powering Past Coal Alliance (PPCA) in 2023.
Coal remains the main source of electricity in the country, accounting for 59.3% of the power mix in 2024, down from 70% in 2022. This gradual decline reflects a sharp rise in renewable capacity. In 2024, wind and solar generated nearly 25% of national electricity, up from just 9% in 2015.
A long-term energy shift initiated over a decade ago
Morocco’s energy strategy dates back to 2009, when it set a target of 52% renewable energy in its mix by 2030. This ambition was reinforced in 2021 with a goal of 70% renewable electricity by 2050. At COP26, the country pledged not to authorise any new coal-fired power plants.
Since then, several reforms have been implemented to attract investment, notably through tenders for large solar and wind projects. The Moroccan Agency for Sustainable Energy (MASEN) acts as a one-stop shop for project developers. A public-private partnership financing scheme has also been established.
Capacity targets and industrial transition
Morocco plans to triple its renewable energy capacity to exceed 15 gigawatts by 2030. This expansion is accompanied by investments in electricity grids and energy storage, which are seen as essential to securing supply. The country no longer plans to build additional coal-fired plants.
The Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development stated that “the gradual coal phase-out, combined with the rapid scaling up of renewables, will reinforce our energy security.”
International context and multilateral support
Morocco’s decision comes as global dynamics are shifting. In 2025, renewable sources for the first time generated more electricity worldwide than coal. Combined growth in solar and wind has outpaced global energy demand growth in the first half of the year.
The Powering Past Coal Alliance, through the Coal Transition Commission (CTC), continues to provide tools to countries seeking to accelerate their coal phase-out. By setting a date, Morocco aims to attract the financing required for an orderly and economically viable transition.
