Energy Relations Between Morocco and Spain: A Solid Foundation
In light of recent discussions that have emerged in certain Spanish media regarding a potential disruption in the energy transit infrastructure between Morocco and Spain, the Spanish government has officially dismissed these claims. Younes Maamar, the former Director General of the National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE) in Morocco, has come forth to advocate for the strength and resilience of the energy relationships that exist between the two nations. Maamar, who has extensive experience in the domain of energy cooperation, emphasizes the strategic importance of the existing interconnections that benefit both Morocco and Spain.
Maamar highlighted that Morocco's presence in the Spanish electricity market dates back to 1997, and since 2001, the ONEE has held a "Market Agent" license which permits it to buy and sell electricity blocks directly in the Iberian market. This long-standing engagement underscores the interconnectedness of the two countries' energy sectors and the mutual benefits derived from such cooperation.
The Historical Context of Energy Cooperation
In his recent commentary, Younes Maamar referenced a significant event from July 2008, when an agreement was signed in Algiers between ONEE and Sonelgaz, the Algerian gas and electricity company. This agreement aimed to establish a joint venture to facilitate the buying and selling of electricity across Iberian markets and included cross-investments in the Moroccan and Algerian electricity sectors. Under this framework, the ONEE was set to acquire a stake in the gas-fired power plant in Terga, near Oran, while Sonelgaz was to invest in a similar project in Morocco named "Al Wahda." However, it is important to note that this agreement belongs to a historical context of energy cooperation between Rabat and Algiers, which cannot be viewed as operational today. Maamar’s mention of this historical agreement serves to highlight the potential for energy collaboration when diplomatic relations were more amicable between the countries.
Maamar argues that despite existing political tensions, the integrity of energy infrastructures and the underlying economic interests should remain intact. He cites international precedents that demonstrate how interruptions in energy exchanges are often exceptions rather than the norm. In the case of Morocco and Spain, he asserts that the longstanding nature of their interconnections, their strategic significance, and the benefits they provide to both countries underscore the resilience of their energy partnership.
As reported by maroc-hebdo.com.
