Morocco Showcases Leadership in Energy Transition at ONS Energy Forum in Norway

Stavanger (Norway) – Morocco’s trailblazing efforts in energy transition were spotlighted at the ONS Energy Forum, a prestigious global summit currently underway in Stavanger, Norway. Leila Benali, Morocco’s Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, represented the Kingdom at this high-profile event, which was inaugurated by Norway’s Crown Prince Haakon.

During the forum, Benali underscored Morocco’s significant strides in renewable energy, positioning the country as a key player in global energy transition efforts. Speaking at the opening panel alongside Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, she highlighted the critical components of Morocco’s energy strategy, including energy security, the scale of completed projects, and the rapid pace of their implementation.

The forum, also attended by Morocco’s Ambassador to Norway, Nabila Freidji, served as a platform for the Minister to emphasize the importance of international partnerships in achieving a successful energy transition. She noted that Morocco, with its vast potential and accumulated experience in the sector, is poised to be a central figure in the global push towards sustainable energy.

On the sidelines of the forum, Benali participated in a roundtable discussion on Sunday addressing. During the discussion, she elaborated on Morocco’s strategy for mineral management, stressing the nation’s role as a strategic corridor for global supply chains.

She also emphasized the importance of recycling critical minerals to ensure their long-term sustainability and advocated for innovation, certification, and incentives to address the challenges posed by mineral dependency.

In addition to her participation in the forum, Benali held several bilateral meetings with key Norwegian officials, including Energy Minister Terje Aasland and Climate and Environment Minister Andreas Bjelland Eriksen. These meetings highlighted the potential for increased collaboration between Morocco and Norway in various areas related to energy transition.

The ONS Energy Forum, organized by the Norwegian Petroleum Safety Authority, is a significant platform for discussing the energy sector’s critical challenges, including decarbonization, technological innovation, and geopolitical dynamics. The 2024 edition of the forum marks its 50th anniversary, held under the patronage of the Norwegian Royal Family.