Noor Atlas 305 MW solar program launched in Morocco with PPA signings and construction commencement
Type: Development · Technology: Solar · Country: Morocco · Capacity: 305 MW · Announced: 2026-03-10
Morocco's 305 MW Noor Atlas solar program has commenced construction following PPA signings by ONEE and MASEN. The six-plant project, financed by KfW, EIB,.
Analysis
Morocco's national renewable energy strategy gains tangible momentum with the 305 MW Noor Atlas solar program commencing construction on 2026-03-10. This six-plant project, spread across Morocco, moves forward following the execution of Power Purchase Agreements by ONEE and MASEN. The commercial logic for ONEE, the Moroccan state-owned public utility managing over 11 GW, centers on securing a long-term, diversified electricity supply for its grid, enhancing energy security for the nation. For MASEN, the Moroccan public agency established in 2010, this program directly advances its core mission of developing, financing, and operating large-scale solar, wind, and hybrid projects within the country. The simultaneous PPA signings and construction commencement streamline the project's development timeline, ensuring the rapid integration of 305 MW of new solar capacity into Morocco's energy mix. This coordinated approach between the off-taker and developer accelerates the deployment of renewable infrastructure, a critical component of Morocco's energy transition goals. The financing consortium behind the Noor Atlas program underscores a collaborative approach to Moroccan infrastructure development. KfW, a German state-owned development bank, expands its international portfolio of energy transition projects, aligning with its focus on promoting sustainable development. Similarly, the Banque Européenne d'Investissement, an EU public financial institution with a balance sheet exceeding €570 billion, deploys long-term finance supporting EU policies for green energy. Bank of Africa, a leading pan-African institution headquartered in Casablanca with a network across over 30 countries, reinforces its commitment to regional infrastructure, demonstrating local financial sector engagement. MASEN, as the Moroccan public agency driving the country's renewable energy strategy since 2010, further solidifies its track record in developing large-scale solar projects. For ONEE, the Moroccan state-owned public utility, these PPAs represent a strategic move to diversify its generation mix beyond its existing over 11 GW managed capacity, enhancing the country's energy independence.
Key points
- Morocco's 305 MW Noor Atlas solar program comprises six distinct plants.
- ONEE, managing over 11 GW, secures future power via PPAs with MASEN, established in 2010.
- KfW, a German state-owned development bank, and EIB, an EU public financial institution with a €570 billion balance sheet, provide international financing.
- Bank of Africa, headquartered in Casablanca with operations across 30+ countries, joins the lending consortium.
- Construction for the multi-plant program commenced on 2026-03-10.
Counterparties
- Agence marocaine pour l'énergie durable (MASEN) (Developer)
- Bank of Africa (Lender)
- Office national de l'électricité et de l'eau potable (ONEE) (Offtaker)
- KfW (Lender)
- Banque Européenne d'Investissement (Lender)