Evaluating the energy security of electricity interdependence: Perspectives from Morocco

Abstract

Much focus has been placed in public policy discourses on defining energy security as independence from reliance on external hydrocarbon fuels. This definition provides little guidance about the benefits and risks to energy security from the integration of electrical power systems across nation-state lines. Instead of assuming energy independence is intrinsically more secure, this paper argues for utilizing a multi-dimensional energy security framework for evaluating electricity integration by evaluating perceptions of the energy security for shallow and deep electricity integration for Morocco. It argues that conceiving of Moroccan policymaker’s energy security goals only in terms of energy independence misunderstands the broader sustainable development and human security context of Morocco’s renewable electricity plans and overlooks its motivations for increasing electricity interdependence. The paper concludes with policy recommendations for global governance geared toward improving the security of transnational grids. First, electricity integration offers numerous energy security benefits, but these benefits could be negated if technological integration lacks a strong political foundation. Second, policymakers should distinguish between dependence and interdependence and prioritize the latter. Third, given the urgency of climate change, pollution, and energy poverty challenges, decision-makers should approach energy security, human security, and sustainable development as inseparable challenges.