Morocco’s Energy Projects Could Weaken Spain’s Leverage in a Future Crisis, Former Official Warns
Morocco’s energy investments are raising concerns for a former senior Spanish official. Manuel Argüelles, former director general of energy for the region of Valencia, believes Rabat’s new projects could reduce Madrid’s influence during future diplomatic tensions.
Electricity flowing across the Strait of Gibraltar and gas passing through Spanish facilities currently give Madrid a strategic advantage. But how long can it hold on to it? In an op-ed published on November 1 by Economía Digital, Manuel Argüelles raises concerns about the consequences of Morocco’s energy program.
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The former director general of energy for the Valencian regional government notes that in 2025, Spain exported 3 880 gigawatt-hours of electricity to Morocco, or nearly 8% of national demand. The Kingdom also relies on Spanish terminals to import liquefied natural gas, which is then transported through the Maghreb-Europe gas pipeline, operating in reverse.
In his view, this situation gives Madrid a means of influence. But the investments announced by Rabat could gradually change that balance.
The National Office of Electricity’s (ONEE) 2026-2030 program provides, in particular, for 3 744 megawatts of new gas-fired generation capacity, intended to support the development of renewable energy. This plan, confirmed by Morocco’s Ministry of Finance, is part of an electricity investment program worth 177 billion dirhams.
Nador terminal at the heart of Spanish concerns
For Manuel Argüelles, the most consequential project is Nador West Med. Morocco plans to develop its own gas import facilities there, which would allow it to source supplies from international markets without necessarily going through Spanish terminals.
The Royal Cabinet statement of October 28 confirms that a liquefied natural gas terminal, capable of handling up to five billion cubic meters a year, is part of the port complex’s development program.
The former Spanish official is also watching plans for new electricity connections. Morocco and Portugal revived their cooperation in July, while a direct connection with France is also being considered. In time, these links would provide other routes for energy exchanges with Europe.
On Bladi.net : Morocco wants to connect to Portugal to no longer depend on Spain
Argüelles believes Madrid risks losing some of its energy influence if these infrastructures are completed. He criticizes Spanish officials for not giving this development enough attention.
Morocco, for its part, presents its investments as a way to diversify its supplies and strengthen its energy security. For the former Valencian official, their consequences could extend far beyond that: in a future crisis between the two neighbors, Spain would have fewer levers than it does today.
