Story perspectives

Morocco's Noor Solar Plant Powers Millions, Faces Criticism

4/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Noor solar power plant near Ouarzazate, Morocco, uses concentrated solar power to generate electricity.
It can power over a million homes.
Despite this capacity, Morocco's energy grid remains coal-dependent, and local residents still rely on fossil fuels.
Critics say the Noor project is water-intensive and has appropriated grazing land from farmers.
Morocco aims for 52% renewable energy by 2030 and 70% by 2050, but grid integration remains challenging.

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Story summary

The Noor solar power plant near Ouarzazate, Morocco, uses concentrated solar power to generate electricity.
It can power over a million homes.
Despite this capacity, Morocco's energy grid remains coal-dependent, and local residents still rely on fossil fuels.
Critics say the Noor project is water-intensive and has appropriated grazing land from farmers.
Morocco aims for 52% renewable energy by 2030 and 70% by 2050, but grid integration remains challenging.