BMI View: Morocco’s plans to build a new LNG terminal at the port of Jorf Lasfar will be crucial to supporting diversification of energy supply and boosting industrial production over the longer term.

Morocco remains one of the largest net importers of hydrocarbons in North Africa, requiring over 200,000 barrels per day (b/d) of oil imports and nearly 1bn cubic metres (bcm) of gas imports in 2013. Despite the heavy import bill, Morocco has been an attractive destination for new foreign investment and is embarking on an ambitious energy plan to support economic growth.

The energy plan will target diversification of energy imports and reduce dependency on imported coal and oil. Part of this programme includes the construction of 4GW of renewable generation capacity to boost domestically sourced power. However, an liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal to increase gas imports is also due to be built at the Jorf Lasfar industrial hub to the south of El Jadida.

Source: Oil and Gas Insight