Morocco
Morocco rises one spot to rank 8th in this year’s CCPI. Morocco receives a medium rating in Climate Policy, high in GHG Emissions and Energy Use, and low in Renewable Energy.
Morocco remains a front-runner in the CCPI rankings. The CCPI national experts view it as a regional leader in sustainable development and GHG reduction. The prioritisation of sustainable development becomes visible in the continued commitment to a 52% share of renewable energy in the electricity mix by 2030. The CCPI experts highlight the country’s progress in expanding solar and wind projects. However, they note the dependence on fossil energy resources and plans for extracting gas locally.
Barriers to Expanding Renewables
High initial costs for renewable energy technology and the dependence on external funding are barriers to further expanding renewables. Changing regulatory frameworks can also deter investors. There is also a gap regarding incentivising renewable energy generation at the local business level and by private individuals.
Community involvement and educational initiatives are included in policy frameworks, but are missing for the implementation of laws and regulation monitoring systems. Water stress was noted as influencing national policies, especially in the agricultural sector in the context of food security.
The experts demand a further push for renewable energy expansion to reduce fossil fuel dependence. Linked to this expansion, technical and institutional capacities need to be strengthened at all levels, as they are vital for implementing climate policy. Redirecting subsidies from fossil fuels and toward supporting renewable energy and energy efficiency are additional measures to take against fossil fuels and to foster renewables. Carbon pricing mechanisms, which are already discussed, should be introduced to internalise fossil fuels’ environmental costs. The CCPI experts propose using drip irrigation systems and gradually introducing sustainable seed practices to adapt agriculture to changing circumstances.
Key Outcomes
- Morocco rises one spot to rank 8th in this year’s CCPI
- High initial costs for renewable energy technology and the dependence on external funding are barriers to further expanding renewables
- Key demands: push for renewable energy expansion to reduce fossil fuel dependence
CCPI Experts
The following national experts agreed to be mentioned as contributors for this year’s CCPI:
- Dr. Mohammed Saddik
- Said Chakri
- Mohammed Ajrinija & Naima Benazzi (High Atlas Foundation)
- Prof. Touria Barradi
