Morocco's Energy Sector Undergoing Comprehensive Evaluation
As Morocco approaches a pivotal phase in its energy transition, the nation is set to undergo a dual assessment spearheaded by the International Energy Agency (IEA). This evaluation, which is positioned as a thorough review of the country's energy strategies alongside a focused analysis of energy security, seeks to fortify Morocco's achievements while adapting its policies to meet evolving international challenges. The anticipated review is scheduled for 2026 and marks the third such assessment since 2014, reflecting the rapid progression towards low-carbon transitions and the geopolitical shifts within the energy sector.
The forthcoming review is part of the IEA's regular evaluation cycle, which takes place every five to six years, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of Morocco's energy choices while also offering actionable recommendations. The assessment will be structured around four main pillars: energy security, economic development, environmental sustainability, and integration into international dynamics. For Morocco, this is not merely an exercise in benchmarking but a crucial opportunity to realign its energy trajectory, which has been in motion for over a decade, in light of new demands for resilience and competitiveness.
Strengthening Partnerships and Technical Cooperation
This evaluation process underscores a strengthened partnership between Morocco and the IEA, which was rejuvenated during the COP29 convened in Baku in November 2024. A new joint work program was established, expanding the scope of cooperation to critical areas such as electricity and gas market regulation, renewable energy development, hydrogen, carbon market management, and resilience against climate shocks. Beyond providing technical support, this framework aims to enhance the structuring of public energy policies according to international standards.
In preparation for this review, an IEA expert mission visited Rabat in February 2025 to lay the groundwork for the assessment. This engagement involved a wide range of institutional stakeholders, including Masen and the ANRE, as well as several international partners such as the French Development Agency and the European Union delegation. These consultations have helped identify specific priorities, particularly concerning the integration of renewable energies and market structuring.
In addition to the comprehensive evaluation, Morocco has also requested a specific analysis of its energy security, which is also slated for 2026. This dual assessment reflects a growing concern regarding supply vulnerabilities in a volatile international environment, particularly highlighted by ongoing tensions in energy markets. Moreover, cooperation with the IEA has deepened on more technical matters, especially related to Energy Attribute Certificates (EACs). This recently introduced mechanism aims to ensure the renewable origin of produced electricity, fostering market transparency and enhancing the valuation of green investments. However, effective implementation hinges on its international recognition, a crucial factor for Moroccan exporters, especially in light of the European Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM).
Throughout 2025, several cycles of technical exchanges were organized to refine this framework, with direct support from the IEA. Discussions also centered on aligning with international standards, including private initiatives like RE100, which increasingly influence industrial value chains. Additionally, enhancing institutional capacities remains a cornerstone of this collaboration, as evidenced by a workshop held in Rabat in December 2025, in partnership with the UNFCCC, which emphasized the importance of high-quality energy and climate data as a crucial lever for the credibility of public policies.
Since 2007, when Morocco formalized its relationship with the IEA by obtaining associated member status in 2016, this partnership has reached a new milestone. As 2026 approaches, Morocco's entire energy architecture is set for a thorough scrutiny, characterized by a strategic adjustment rather than a complete overhaul.
As reported by fr.hespress.com.
