Souss-Massa to build 15 billion DH desalination plant producing 350 million cubic meters of water annually
The Souss-Massa region is preparing for a new seawater desalination plant between Tiznit and Chtouka-A茂t Baha, with an estimated investment of nearly 15 billion DH. The project aims to produce 350 million cubic meters of desalinated water per year, with 250 million cubic meters allocated for irrigation and 100 million cubic meters for drinking water. This initiative seeks to diversify water sources, increase reliance on non-conventional water resources, and meet the region's needs for both potable water and irrigation. The agricultural component will represent over 70% of the projected annual capacity. The provinces of Tiznit, Chtouka-A茂t Baha, and Taroudant are expected to directly benefit from the project, which will connect to a hydraulic network covering the Massa, El Guerdane, and Souss basins. This system will redistribute water resources and provide additional volumes to agricultural areas and affected populations. Beyond increasing supply, the project also aims to reduce pressure on groundwater tables, which are heavily used for agricultural needs. The new resources from desalination are intended to support the sustainability of agricultural activity and enhance the security of drinking water supply. The project includes a significant energy dimension, as the plant is expected to operate entirely on renewable energy sources. This approach links desalinated water production with clean energy, aiming to control operating costs and reduce the carbon footprint. This new i