Morocco, in partnership with the European Union, has initiated a strategic seawater desalination project in Nador to address the growing water stress in the Oriental region. Funded by the EU and implemented under Morocco’s National Water Plan, the plant will provide millions of cubic meters of clean water annually, supporting households, agriculture, and industry while enhancing climate resilience.
Morocco is facing unprecedented water stress issues and is currently experiencing its worst drought for 40 years. This has left reservoirs at historically low levels, threatening agriculture, drinking water supplies and, more broadly, the country’s economy. As such, the country is pursuing a strategy that relies heavily on desalinated seawater to secure water for its residents and agricultural sector. It is in this line that Morocco, in partnership with the European Union, has initiated a strategic seawater desalination project in Nador to address the growing water stress in the Oriental region.
Back in the day, farmers used traditional irrigation techniques that were labor-intensive. Now, with modern desalination systems, we treat seawater to remove salt and pump the fresh water into basins for efficient irrigation.
MUSTAPHA EL MAHMOUDI, Farmer
This collaboration highlights the EU-Morocco Green Partnership’s focus on sustainable development and positions Nador as a model for renewable-powered desalination in North Africa. Construction is expected to begin in 2025, with potential hybrid solar energy integration to ensure environmental sustainability. The project underscores Morocco’s leadership in water innovation and strengthens Euro-Moroccan cooperation in tackling shared climate challenges.
This state-led project will bring significant benefits to the country, God willing. The region has vast agricultural potential, with large, medium, and small-scale farms ready to thrive.
MUSTAPHA EL MAHMOUDI, Farmer
The desalination process will use reverse osmosis technology powered entirely by the 360MW Bir Anzarane wind farm, which will dedicate 47 per cent of its output to the plant. The use of renewable energy overcomes one of the challenges of relying heavily on a desalination water security policy.
