Technicians say that the Noor 2 and 3 plants, due to open in 2017, will store energy for up to eight hours – opening the prospect of 24/7 solar energy in the Sahara and the surrounding region. But, even as the first phase of the project nears completion, Morocco is eyeing grander international ambitions. “We are already involved in high tension transportation lines to cover the full south of Morocco and Mauritania as a first step,” says Ahmed Baroudi, manager of the national renewable energy investment company. But he says the project’s ultimate impact will go far wider – even as far as the Middle East. Whether that ambition is achieved remains to be seen but exporting solar energy could have stabilizing effects within and between countries, according to the Moroccan solar energy agency (Masen). Talks are ongoing with Tunisia and energy exports northwards across the Mediterranean remain a key goal.
What is true of the south of Morocco and Mauritania?
Electricity will be transported there from Noor 2 and 3 Electricity will be produced there at Noor 2 and 3 Electricity will be exported from there to the Middle East Electricity will be cheaper there