Morocco is expected to put out an expression of interest for the construction of an offshore liquefied natural gas terminal off the coast of the city of Nador. The remarks were noted by Energy Minister Leila Benali, who informed the parliament on Monday. The new terminal will be part of the Nador West Med deepwater port that is being developed. It will also be a floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU). According to Benali, the initial phase will kick off soon, with tenders in days. Furthermore, it aligns with the government’s plans to meet the growing gas demand while reducing reliance on coal.
The Nador LNG Terminal will be linked to the country’s current infrastructure, for instance, a pipeline already receiving 0.5 billion cubic meters of gas from Spain. The terminal will also be linked to large industrial zones around Kenitra and Mohammedia. The project is part of Morocco’s broader energy plans. The country has a goal of raising its contribution of renewable energy to 52% of installed capacity by the year 2030, compared to the current 45%.
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The Significance of Morocco’s Nador LNG Terminal
The development of Morocco’s Nador LNG Terminal is instrumental in providing energy security for Morocco. It seeks to promote the transition from coal to cleaner sources of fuel. The demand for natural gas in Morocco is also projected to rise to 8 billion cubic meters by 2027 from 1 billion at present. This sudden increase highlights the necessity of boosting infrastructure on schedule. Morocco’s Nador LNG Terminal will also enhance economic activity in the area. Moreover, it will encompass large industrial estates and stimulate private investment.
Its floating notion ensures flexibility and quick deployment. Furthermore, the project complements Morocco’s power plan. ONEE, the state electricity utility, on the same day endorsed a plan for raising capacity by 15 gigawatts in 2030. Of them, 13 gigawatts will be clean energy. The plan will require an investment of 120 billion dirhams. As Morocco pushes forward with its energy policy, Morocco’s Nador LNG Terminal is a key location. It is a milestone on the road to long-term energy security.
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First LNG terminal with FSRU in Morocco for Construction at Mohammedia Port
Nador West Med port complex project receives funding from AfDB
