ONEE Connects Desalination Station to National Electricity Grid in Casablanca

On July 19, 2026, the National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE) successfully completed the electrical infrastructure required to connect the desalination station in the Casablanca-Settat region to the national electricity grid. This ambitious project involved a substantial investment exceeding 486 million dirhams and included the construction of a 400 kV connection, featuring a new substation at Lamharza Essahel and a double-circuit line.

This significant milestone represents a vital step in enhancing the supply of drinking water in an area that is increasingly vulnerable to water stress. The new desalination unit is projected to commence operations in February 2027, primarily serving the Greater Casablanca area along with Settat, Berrechid, Bir Jdid, and surrounding locales.

A Pivotal Development for Water Security in Casablanca

The upgraded infrastructure consists of a medium voltage electrical substation with a capacity of 300 MVA, along with a 50-kilometer long 400 kV line for each circuit. These enhancements are crucial for ensuring a consistent and secure energy supply to the desalination facility, which heavily relies on a stable energy input for its operations. Beyond simply supporting the water production site, this connection also plays a significant role in strengthening the national electricity transmission network to accommodate major infrastructural projects.

Initial construction of the desalination station began in June 2024, covering an area of approximately 50 hectares. This project aims to address the rising demand for potable water in one of Morocco's key urban and economic hubs. Given the ongoing depletion of conventional water resources, seawater desalination is increasingly becoming a central component of the national strategy for water security, complementing the roles of dams, water transfers, and the reuse of treated wastewater.

For the Casablanca-Settat region, the stakes involved encompass demographic, economic, and environmental considerations. The continuous expansion of urban areas, along with the requirements of households, services, and industrial activities, exerts sustained pressure on available water resources.

As reported by lebrief.ma.