The Moroccan Storage Company (SOMAS) inaugurated its fourth butane gas storage cavern in Sidi Larbi, a rural commune in Sidi Moussa Ben Ali, Mohammedia, on Friday. The event was attended by notable figures, including Leila Benali, the Minister of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development.
According to the company, the new cavern required an investment of 400 million dirhams (MDH) and increases SOMAS’s total storage capacity to 310,000 tons, marking a significant 55% boost. This strategic expansion addresses the growing market demand and enhances the national autonomy in butane gas to over 40 days.
“This achievement reflects the efforts made by SOMAS to develop the national energy sector,” highlighted Minister Benali in her speech, noting that this milestone aligns perfectly with the government’s policy to enhance energy product storage capacities, following the High Directions of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.
“Butane gas is one of the most consumed energy products in Morocco, with an annual growth rate of over 3% on average. Its consumption reached 3.2 million tons of oil equivalent in 2023, representing 26% of our national petroleum product consumption,” Benali added.
“These figures underline the relevance of this new storage capacity, reinforcing SOMAS’s strategic role as a key player in developing energy storage infrastructure, thereby contributing to the Kingdom’s energy security.”
Tawfiq Hamoumi, Chairman of the SOMAS Board of Directors, expressed pride in inaugurating the fourth butane gas storage cavern, emphasizing the commitment of SOMAS’s shareholders to Morocco’s energy future.
“As part of its strategy to support the national energy transition, SOMAS aims to further develop underground storage capacities, thereby enhancing the security and reliability of Morocco’s energy supply,” Hamoumi stated.
“This significant expansion strengthens our ability to ensure a stable and secure supply of butane gas while supporting the national energy transition with sustainable and innovative solutions,” noted Khalid Baghri, SOMAS’s General Manager.
He further explained that the project contributes to the economic and social development of the city of Mohammedia, particularly the commune of Sidi Moussa Ben Ali, by creating nearly 50 direct and indirect jobs and significantly improving local infrastructure.
Founded in 1974, SOMAS specializes in the advanced technique of storing in underground salt caverns, located 500 meters deep in salt deposits. These facilities enable massive storage of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) in compliance with strict international safety and environmental standards.
