The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has granted a €200 million loan to Morocco’s OCP Group, a global leader in phosphates and fertilizers, to support the construction of two large-scale seawater desalination plants. These facilities, with a combined capacity of 35 million cubic meters per year, will be located in OCP’s industrial hubs in El Jadida (Jorf Lasfar) and Safi, supplying water crucial for fertilizer production and contributing to global food security.
This ambitious project is a key component of OCP’s comprehensive sustainable water management strategy. Morocco, where water availability is a critical issue, currently has an average of only 790 cubic meters of water per capita per year—well below the 1,000 cubic meter threshold deemed critical. With El Jadida and Safi already experiencing high water demand and vulnerable to recurrent droughts, OCP’s desalination efforts aim to alleviate pressure on freshwater resources.
Reducing freshwater dependency with innovative solutions
Once operational, these desalination plants will allow OCP to significantly cut its use of Morocco’s scarce freshwater reserves, lowering its consumption by 3 million cubic meters annually. OCP has set an ambitious goal to rely solely on non-traditional water sources, including desalination and treated wastewater, by 2027, demonstrating its commitment to sustainable practices and resource conservation.
Green technology investments for sustainable development
The partnership between EBRD and OCP highlights the importance of investing in desalination technology as a solution to growing water needs while also preserving fragile ecosystems and supporting sustainable economic development. This project serves as a tangible step towards a green economy, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
“This partnership with OCP exemplifies our commitment to sustainable solutions for Morocco,” said Odile Renaud-Basso, President of the EBRD. Mostafa Terrab, CEO of OCP, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that the collaboration strengthens Morocco’s resilience to environmental challenges through sustainable water resource management.
By prioritizing non-traditional water sources, OCP’s desalination projects not only help mitigate Morocco’s water scarcity but also reinforce the country’s position as a leader in sustainable development in North Africa. This initiative underscores a forward-looking approach to resource management, balancing industrial growth with environmental responsibility and regional stability.
