Inspection of Undersea Power Cables: A Strategic Initiative for Morocco and Spain
In a significant development for energy cooperation between Morocco and Spain, both nations are preparing to inspect the undersea power cables that serve as a vital link for electricity transmission between them. This initiative comes in the wake of a major blackout that occurred in April 2025, which left more than 50 million people in mainland Spain, Portugal, and Andorra without power for approximately ten hours. The inspection contract has been awarded to the Spanish marine services company Advanced Cargo Services & Marina (ACSM), ensuring that the cables' condition will be thoroughly evaluated to ascertain the need for any necessary maintenance.
The undersea power link, which traverses the Strait of Gibraltar, spans approximately 30 kilometers and connects the Fardioua station in Morocco to the Tarifa substation in Spain. This connection is particularly remarkable as it operates at depths reaching up to 640 meters, featuring two 400kV circuits and a total of seven cables—three cables for each circuit and an additional cable held in reserve. The first of these circuits was commissioned in 1997, followed by the second circuit in 2006, together providing a maximum combined capacity of 1,400 megawatts (MW).
Importance of Cross-Border Energy Links
Under the current commercial arrangements, the electricity flow can reach up to 900MW from Spain to Morocco and 600MW in the reverse direction. The blackout incident in April 2025 served to underscore the critical importance of these cross-border energy links, which not only facilitate electricity trade but also enhance energy security for both nations. During the blackout, Morocco played a pivotal role by redirecting part of its energy generation to support Spain, with reports suggesting that the transfer reached as high as 900MW, showcasing the interconnectedness and mutual reliance of energy infrastructures between the two countries.
Looking ahead, Morocco and Spain are also planning the establishment of a third undersea connection at 400kV, which aims to add an additional 700MW of capacity to their existing energy network. This forthcoming project is estimated to cost around $169 million, with expenses to be shared equally between the two countries. Such initiatives not only strengthen bilateral relations but also contribute toward the expansion of renewable energy sources and sustainable development in both Morocco and Spain.
As reported by northafricapost.com.
