Former Tesco CEO proposes ambitious Morocco-UK subsea cable

Former Tesco CEO proposes a 4,000km Morocco-UK subsea cable to supply Britain with renewable energy, tapping Morocco's wind and solar resources.
 

A bold vision is unfolding in southwest Morocco. Stretching across an area the size of Greater London, a network of wind and solar farms could soon produce clean electricity for over 9 million British homes. This ambitious project centres on the world's longest subsea cable, a 4,000-kilometer power link connecting Morocco to Devon, England. At the heart of this effort is Sir Dave Lewis, former Tesco CEO. He sees it as a way to harness Africa’s renewable energy for Britain’s clean energy agenda.

A New Frontier in Energy

The Morocco-UK subsea cable, developed by Xlinks, could supply up to 8% of Britain’s electricity. It taps into Morocco's Tantan province, a region that enjoys abundant sunshine and steady winds. These resources will provide renewable energy for about 19 hours each day. Once operational, it aims to strengthen the UK's renewable energy infrastructure. It will do so by providing consistent, low-carbon electricity.

The project comes at a critical time too. Britain has committed to achieving a net-zero electricity system by 2035 as part of its clean energy goals. Morocco’s renewable energy resources, already among the most reliable in Africa, align perfectly with this vision.

Why Morocco?

Morocco is a leader in renewable energy development in Africa. With its vast desert landscapes and long coastline, it offers ideal conditions for solar and wind energy projects. The country’s renewable energy strategy aims to generate 52% of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. This makes Morocco a hub for clean energy in the region.

The subsea cable project would not only support Britain’s energy needs but also boost Morocco’s economy. It would create jobs, attract foreign investment, and solidify Morocco’s role as a key player in Africa’s renewable energy transition.

The Technology Behind the Vision

The project combines proven technologies. These include solar farms, wind turbines, energy storage, and high-voltage subsea cables. The subsea cable, buried under the seabed, will send electricity from Morocco to the UK in less than a second. A planned factory in Scotland could manufacture half of the cable required. So this will also boost the local industry and ensure supply chain reliability.

The scale of this project is massive, but it features tried and tested components. Sir Dave Lewis emphasizes that scaling up is a matter of repeating these proven methods. By securing supply chains in advance, the project aims to reduce risks and delays.

Challenges and the Path Ahead

While the concept is groundbreaking, the biggest roadblock remains. The roadblock in question? Getting final approval from the UK government. However, the project doesn't need government funding. But what it does require is a contract guaranteeing stable electricity prices. Sir Lewis estimates the price at £70–£80 per megawatt-hour. This is cheaper than nuclear energy and competitive with future offshore wind projects.

The risk-averse nature of large infrastructure projects presents another challenge. This is particularly prominent with the shadow of Britain's history of delayed or over-budget projects looming large. But, Lewis remains hopeful. He argues that the advantages, both economic and environmental, outweigh the risks.

Reliance on a foreign country for a major chunk of the country's energy supply also raises concerns. But as Lewis points out, the UK is no stranger to importing energy.  So the country must continue strengthening international partnerships to meet its energy needs. Morocco, with its stability and renewable energy potential, is an ideal partner.

Investors Backing the Project

Large international energy companies are backing this Xlinks project. Investors include TotalEnergies, Abu Dhabi's TAQA, General Electric's investment arm, and Octopus Energy. Greys Jackson, CEO of Octopus Energy, sees the project as feasible and necessary. He believes these kinds of renewable partnerships are the future of global energy.

Jackson adds that a fresh perspective in the energy sector is very important. With a retail background, Sir Dave Lewis is not restricted by outdated industry norms. So, Jackson sees this as a clear advantage. This outsider perspective allows for innovative solutions and bold initiatives.

Transforming Africa's Renewable Energy Potential

This project showcases Africa’s renewable energy potential on a global stage. While Morocco stands out, the continent as a whole is rich in renewable energy resources. From the Sahara’s solar potential to coastal wind opportunities, Africa could play a significant role in global clean energy markets.

The Morocco-UK project is not just about energy transfer. It’s about creating a template for how developed nations can partner with Africa to address the global climate crisis. Collaborations like this offer more than a stable supply of energy too. They also play a key role in driving investment and technology transfer. On top of this, they aid sustainable development across the continent of Africa too.

A New Opportunity for Clean Energy

If successful, this subsea cable could revolutionize how countries collaborate on renewable energy. By 2030, it could provide Britain with a reliable, low-cost source of green electricity. For Morocco, it strengthens its status as a renewable energy leader in Africa and beyond.

The project aligns with broader global trends. Countries throughout the world are diversifying their energy sources, reducing fossil fuel dependence, and building resilient energy systems. So, the Morocco-UK partnership goes another step toward achieving these aspirations.

A strong opportunity with the Morocco-UK subsea cable

The Morocco-UK subsea cable presents an exciting vision for the future. It combines innovation, international cooperation, and a commitment to sustainability. By harnessing Africa’s renewable energy and supporting Britain’s clean energy agenda, this project could set a new standard for global energy partnerships.

As the world moves toward a greener future, projects like this highlight the importance of bold ideas and collaborative efforts. Morocco’s renewable energy and Britain’s clean energy goals show that solutions to the climate crisis are within reach—if we dare to think big.
 

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