The offshore wind energy potential of Morocco: Optimal locations, cost analysis, and socioenvironmental examination

Morocco, a country without substantial fossil fuels, is emerging as a leader in renewable energy. This article addresses an untapped natural resource in Morocco: offshore wind. Methodologically, we use geographic information systems to assess optimal locations for offshore wind energy plants based on wind speed and power density from the Global Wind Atlas. We incorporate geological, environmental, and economic parameters and calculate capital expenses, operating expenses, development costs, and decommissioning costs to determine if the wind plant will provide a return on investment during its lifetime. The results identify three locations near the cities of Dakhla, Boujdour, and Essaouira that would recoup their investment in 14, 13, and 18 years, respectively, along with supplying 21.8% of Morocco's current energy needs for 2022. We conclude by considering the implications that the new plants would have for Morocco in the social, political, environmental, and economic dimensions. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:201-210. © 2023 SETAC.