Rabat – Chinese wind turbine manufacturer Aeolon is hoping to contribute to Morocco’s renewable energy transition through the establishment of its first overseas Megawatt-class (MW) wind turbine blade production facility in Nador.
The strategic investment of the state-of-the-art wind turbine blade manufacturing base is a signal of Morocco’s growing influence in sustainable practices, with potential for economic growth and job creation.
As Morocco harnesses the relentless winds of the Sahara and the abundant sunshine that graces its landscape, it has the potential to become a bastion of green renewable energy.
Aelon’s initiative in Morocco is well underway. As early as 2021, the company started recruiting coordinators for the project.
Upon completion, this facility is set to become a cornerstone in the wind power blade production landscape, serving the energy needs of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
Aeolon‘s venture into Morocco shows the country’s potential as a renewable energy powerhouse but also the country’s strategic vision for its international growth narrative.
The new deal has links with Morocco and Germany’s recent agreement to cooperate on sustainable energy practices. Aeolon’s subsidiary – Aeolon Renewable Energy DE –, has already proclaimed its entry into the Germany market, officially registered and operational in Berlin, Germany as of February of last year.
Therefore, the land of the program can mark a breakthrough in defining Morocco’s position in the field of new energy, demonstrating Moroccan potential for increased momentum as a destination for international investment.
This initiative comes at a time of increasing interconnectedness of the global energy landscape. With the winds of change at their back, these nations are hoping to chart a course towards a sustainable future, powered by innovation, collaboration, and a steadfast resolve to preserve our planet for generations to come.
The project, located in the Betoya Industrial Acceleration Zone in Nador, Morocco, has a total investment of 1.749 billion yuan (approximately MAD 2.43 billion).
The annual production capacity is expected to reach 600 sets, according to the company’s plan. It is expected to employ 3332 people with an expected annual revenue reach of 626 million euros.
This unfolding story of Aeolon’s commitment to Morocco is not an isolated episode but a chapter in a narrative of growth.
In 2021, Spanish wind-power component manufacturer Incom opened its first facility in Tangier with a 1.5 million euro investment,. paving the way for Aeolon’s entry as their supplier. Thus, the initiative in Nador is also Incom’s first branch in Africa.
Aeolon’s choice in Morocco is underpinned by a confluence of factors.
Firstly, Morocco’s proximity to the key markets within Africa, Europe, and the Middle East reduces transportation costs and increases interconnectedness in the industry. This facility is able to address the demand for wind power blades in Europe and the US, bridging the current gap.
Additionally, Morocco’s stable economic landscape has proven fertile for foreign investment. This is due to government support and significant tax-breaks for new energy initiatives and manufacturing, as well as an abundance of cheap skilled labor as a result of government training programs.
The company cited on their website that this project falls in line with the “Belt and Road” initiative, and the governmental collaboration fosters an environment conducive to corporate growth.
Once operational, the Aeolon facility is poised to be a cornerstone of wind power blade production, focused on markets in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.
To discuss the project’s opening, Aeolon President Li Chuansheng metwith Mohsin Gezouli, ministerial representative to the head of the Moroccan government last Tuesday.
The facilities’ opening is part of Morocco’s broader vision to amplify its global market share and fortify its supply chain and service capabilities, paving the way for sustainable energy industry growth.
After this program launched, more countries have reiterated their intentions to develop further cooperation with Morocco.
Austrian Minister of Labor and Economy, Martin Kocher, said in a meeting last Monday that he looked forward to discussions about partnership projects between Morocco and Austria, especially in the fields of energy transition, sustainable development, renewable energy and green hydrogen.
Additionally, Italy is interested in engaging in Morocco’s renewable energy projects, as was emphasized in the Italy-Africa summit which took place in Rome this past week.
This shared vision between Morocco and this Chinese manufacturer, and the strong wish to cooperate from these countries demonstrates that when it comes to renewable potential, Morocco is not just blowing in the wind, it has the potential to soar.
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