GE Vernova’s Gas Power business, Morocco’s National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE), and Nareva have embarked on a journey to revolutionize power generation in Morocco.
The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) marks the commencement of a feasibility study aimed at decarbonizing ONEE’s Laâyoune Power Plant through the utilization of green hydrogen. Let’s delve into the details of this transformative initiative and its potential implications for Morocco’s energy landscape.
The primary goal of the collaboration is to explore the feasibility of transitioning the Laâyoune Power Plant, currently fueled by heavy oil, to operate on green hydrogen. By leveraging GE Vernova’s 6B gas turbines, the project aims to pave the way for the first hydrogen-powered facility in Africa. Through techno-economic evaluation studies, the partners seek to develop an integrated solution that enables the production and utilization of 100% hydrogen by volume, thereby achieving significant decarbonization of the power plant.
At the heart of the project lies the utilization of green hydrogen as a clean and sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. GE Vernova’s advanced gas turbine technology, coupled with hydrogen conversion capabilities, presents a viable pathway towards achieving carbon neutrality in power generation. The feasibility study will explore the integration of the full production value chain, including hydrogen production, storage, and utilization, to enable seamless operation of the power plant on hydrogen during peak demand periods.
The successful implementation of the project holds immense potential for Morocco’s energy transition efforts. By embracing green hydrogen technology, Morocco can reduce its carbon emissions, enhance energy security, and accelerate the integration of renewable energy sources into the national grid. Moreover, the project aligns with Morocco’s ambitious targets to expand renewable electricity capacity to 52% by 2030, positioning the country as a leader in sustainable energy practices within the region.