Morocco’s National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE) has launched an international tender for a hybrid solar-diesel power plant in El Guerguarat, marking a significant step in the country’s renewable energy expansion strategy.
The $6.18 million project features an 18-month implementation timeline and will be constructed on a 10-hectare site at the strategically important border post. The facility represents part of ONEE’s broader $22 billion investment plan for 2025-2030, targeting 56% renewable capacity by 2027.
The hybrid facility will integrate multiple energy solutions including a 1.5 MWc solar photovoltaic park coupled with a 1.5 MWh battery storage system for grid stabilization. Backup diesel generators comprising two 1000 kVA units and two 500 kVA units will ensure continuous power supply during peak demand or insufficient solar production periods.
A sophisticated Energy Management System (EMS) will optimize operations by intelligently controlling battery charging cycles and activating diesel components when weather conditions limit solar output. The system connects through a 22 kV distribution substation managing the balance between different energy sources.
The tender process requires companies to submit bids by September 25, with strict qualification requirements across electrical works, solar PV installation, battery storage, and civil engineering. Bidders must demonstrate specific experience levels, including completion of similar photovoltaic projects worth over $1 million and battery storage implementations exceeding 1 MWh capacity.
Financial requirements include minimum annual turnover of $3 million over three years, with a $100,000 provisional guarantee and 120-day bid validity. Moroccan firms receive a 15% preference margin in evaluation.
This project follows the successful implementation of a water desalination unit operational since November 2023, demonstrating Morocco’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure development in remote border regions while advancing its comprehensive energy transition strategy.
