Groundbreaking Agreement for Ammonia Production in Morocco
The U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) has entered into a significant agreement with ORNX to fund a pre-engineering study for a large-scale ammonia production facility in Laâyoune, Morocco, utilizing American technologies. Once operational, this facility is expected to produce an impressive 560,000 tons of ammonia annually, marking a substantial advancement in the region's industrial capabilities.
According to Thomas R. Hardy, the Deputy Director of USTDA, "Morocco has prioritized ammonia production in this region as a national priority. When our allies make structural decisions regarding infrastructure for future generations, USTDA is proud to partner with the U.S. industry to demonstrate the best of American expertise." He emphasized that the USTDA's support would place American technologies and expertise at the heart of what Morocco considers one of the cornerstones of its economic future.
Collaboration with Leading American Firms
ORNX has chosen a consortium of American companies led by Kellogg Brown & Root LLC (KBR), which also includes GE Vernova, Electric Hydrogen (EH2), and Terabase, to conduct the study. This comprehensive assessment will evaluate the electrolyzer technology developed by EH2, examine various energy supply options, determine the optimal size and configuration of the industrial facilities, and create detailed financial projections along with economic models. The project not only aims to enhance ammonia production but also serves as a vital opportunity for economic development in Morocco's southern provinces, reinforcing the Kingdom's role as a reliable partner in meeting global industrial demand.
Peter A. Gish, the General Manager of ORNX, expressed gratitude towards USTDA, stating, "We are very thankful for USTDA's significant support as we reach this major milestone in our ammonia project in Laâyoune, Morocco. This funding will enable us to complete the pre-FEED studies with our partners KBR, GE Vernova, Electric Hydrogen, and Terabase, advancing the technical and commercial development of the project as we move towards the FEED phase and final investment decision. We are honored to see ORNX become a shining example of the strong strategic partnership between Morocco and the United States. We look forward to continuing our close collaboration with USTDA, the U.S. Embassy in Rabat, and all our partners to finalize the development and financing of the project."
U.S. Ambassador to Morocco Duke Buchan III highlighted the strategic importance of American investments in Moroccan Sahara, stating, "The approval of this grant for ORNX's low-cost ammonia project in Laâyoune underscores the strategic importance of American investments in the Moroccan Sahara. American companies continue to demonstrate unparalleled leadership and technology in the development and production of energy that fuels the global economy, including in Morocco. By promoting industrial projects like this one, we are opening new avenues for American exports and creating sustainable jobs both in the United States and Morocco. More initiatives will follow in this strategic region."
The USTDA plays a crucial role in advancing infrastructure development in emerging markets, creating opportunities for deploying reliable American solutions. It funds preliminary technical studies that accelerate the development of infrastructure projects, enabling them to attract the necessary financing for implementation and the acquisition of American goods and services.
As reported by fr.le360.ma.
