The Undersea Power Link Between Morocco and Spain
Deep beneath the waters of the Strait of Gibraltar, an extensive network of 29 kilometers of electric cables forms an invisible bridge, linking Morocco with Europe. This dual-directional underwater highway is crucial in transporting vast amounts of electricity, predominantly sourced from Tarifa, Spain, to the Moroccan territory. The flow of electricity is rarely reversed, making this infrastructure essential for Spain but absolutely critical for Rabat, which has come to rely on this connection to meet up to 20% of its national electricity demand. This undersea cable serves as a vital buffer, preventing potential collapses within Morocco's electrical system.
The significance of this cable extends beyond mere electricity supply; it synchronizes Morocco's grid with the European electrical system. According to Ignacio Urbasos, a researcher in Global Affairs at the University of Navarra, prior to this interconnection, Morocco experienced frequent power outages. The timing of electricity transfer is as important as the volume itself. The link not only stabilizes the frequency of the Moroccan grid but also acts as a backup during critical moments. Whether it’s a generator failure or sudden demand spikes, this connection allows for adjustments within milliseconds, ensuring a reliable power supply.
Strategic Importance Amidst Political Tensions
In light of the unprecedented migration crisis, with around 70,000 irregular immigrants entering Ceuta, the underwater highway has gained strategic importance for Spain as well. Unlike gas contracts that could bind Spain to maintain electricity flow, the electrical connection operates without such long-term obligations, allowing Spain the theoretical ability to sever ties unilaterally. While such a move would certainly lead to a significant loss of trust, it also serves as leverage in Spain’s deterrence strategy against the irredentism of its southern neighbor.
The undersea cable's development commenced in 1986 amid fierce opposition from local fishermen and residents of Algeciras, fueled by fears—now recognized as misinformation—regarding the electromagnetic fields adversely affecting marine life. However, by 1997, the cable was operational, initially capable of transferring 700 MW, enough to power around 600,000 homes. As demand increased, this capacity soon proved inadequate. In 2000, a collaborative effort between Red Eléctrica of Spain and Morocco's ONEE (National Office of Electricity) led to the REMO Project, aimed at enhancing this connection, not just for energy supply but for fostering stability and industrial development across the southern Mediterranean, financed equally by both countries.
By 2006, the upgraded connection was complete, doubling its capacity and ensuring a robust electricity supply to Morocco's most remote areas. This development has been pivotal in establishing industrial hubs, such as Tangier Med, which serves as a central point for Morocco's automotive and electronic sectors. As of today, the World Bank recognizes Morocco's electrical system as one of the most reliable in Africa, further attracting industrial investments due to its enhanced quality of supply. Nevertheless, while the connection has been instrumental in stabilizing Spain's electrical grid following the major blackout of 2025, it is undeniably more critical for Morocco's energy security.
In conclusion, understanding this energy interdependence is vital, yet it raises concerns about whether it should be wielded as a political tool. As Jorge Dezcallar, former director of Spain's National Intelligence Center, reflects, while Morocco relies on Spain for its connection to the European electrical system, it is crucial for Spain to navigate this relationship carefully to avoid fostering a sense of energy insecurity in Morocco. This delicate balance is essential for maintaining mutual benefits and stability in the region.
As reported by elmundo.es.
