Mitsubishi Power to supply gas turbines for Morocco’s power plant

Mitsubishi Power, a power solutions brand of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI), announced that it has won a major order in Morocco to supply two M701JAC gas turbines and auxiliary equipment for the Al Wahda open cycle gas turbine power plant owned and operated by the National Office of Electricity and Drinking Water (ONEE).

Once operational, the plant’s two gas turbines will generate a combined 990 MW, representing nearly 7% of Morocco’s national grid capacity. It is expected to begin operation in 2027.

The Al Wahda power plant, located near Al Wahda Dam in the Province of Ouazzane in the north of Morocco, will play a crucial role in stabilising the Moroccan national grid. This peaker power plant will integrate with the country’s growing renewable energy resources.

Mitsubishi Power says its M701JAC gas turbines, which are capable of co-firing hydrogen with natural gas will support Morocco’s long-term sustainability objectives by offering flexibility for future decarbonisation.

In addition, the Al Wahda power plant will play a pivotal role in stabilising Morocco’s national grid as the country continues to increase its share of renewable energy year by year.

The plant is designed to operate with maximum availability, providing continuous power output to meet the country’s growing energy demands and contributing to goal of reaching more than 52% renewable energy in the electricity mix by 2030.

With advanced gas turbines, which can handle rapid load variations and frequent start-ups and shutdowns, grid reliability is ensured without compromising the integrity of the equipment. This capability is vital as Morocco eyes additional integration for more intermittent renewable energy sources into its energy mix, further supporting the country’s long-term energy strategy and sustainability goals.

In addition, Mitsubishi Power signed a long-term service agreement with ONEE for the provision of parts, repairs and services.