Morocco’s path to a climate-resilient energy transition: identifying emission drivers, proposing solutions, and addressing barriers

Abstract

Morocco is currently at a critical juncture, facing a pivotal decision regarding its future energy transition and standing at the crossroads of its energy trajectory. The dilemma lies in whether to prioritize energy efficiency (reducing energy consumption and promoting the adoption of electric vehicles) and energy sobriety (limiting the frequency of using energy-consuming equipment) or to pursue the decarbonization of the grid through enhancements in fossil and nuclear production, gradually transitioning to a 100% renewable mix. In an effort to foster a broader contemplation, this study illuminates these concepts, encompassing an analysis of the CO2 emission drivers utilizing the Kaya equation and an exploration of the challenges and opportunities associated with the net-zero challenge and a successful energy transition, including critical materials and policy landscapes. Furthermore, the study delves into Morocco’s advancements across these three pillars of the energy transition.