Morocco, Finland poised to strengthen cooperation in energy sectors

Morocco and Finland have signed an agreement meant to foster their cooperation in the energy sector.

The document was signed during a virtual meeting between the Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, Leïla Benali, and the Finnish Minister of Economy, Mika Lintilä, represented in Rabat by the Finnish Ambassador to Morocco, Pekka Hyvönen.

The agreement emphasizes the development of cooperation, in particular on the use of renewable energy. Opportunities for cooperation will also be identified in the fields of energy efficiency, energy technology, the hydrogen economy, flexible energy systems, storage solutions and integration technologies, as well as hydrogen and Power-to-X, and in research and development.
In this vein, the two ministries will work to accelerate the establishment of partnerships between agencies and companies of both countries to jointly conduct projects in the areas of innovation, research and development.

“Investments in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and energy systems are essential for a prosperous society. In Finland, we have developed great know-how in these fields, and it is with great pleasure that we welcome this cooperation with Morocco in practice”, declared, on this occasion, Mika Lintilä.

“The report on energy cooperation signed today creates good bases for the development of the bilateral partnership. This is an important tool for strengthening networks between companies, universities and research organizations, as well as for building trade and investment links between our countries,” the Finnish official said.

For Finland, Morocco is an interesting market that, geographically, serves as a gateway to all the growing African markets. Bilateral relations are excellent and cooperation has been carried out in many areas, with major opportunities in the energy sector. The growing interest and economic opportunities cover hydro, wind, and solar energy.

In addition to pure and renewable energy technologies, Morocco is also interested in information and communication technology, waste treatment plants, and water treatment plants, areas in which Finland has great know-how.

The agreement also seeks to promote Finnish investment in Morocco in these fields.