Morocco has introduced a new draft law aimed at regulating all activities related to natural gas, including storage, export, import, transportation, and distribution.
The country is poised to overhaul its natural gas sector as it seeks to enhance energy independence and reduce carbon emissions.
The move comes on the heels of a report by Morocco’s Court of Auditors exposing inefficiencies in the country’s energy system.
The Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development has proposed the new legislation, arguing that a comprehensive legal framework is essential to achieve the nation’s energy goals.
Under the proposed law, a national agency will be responsible for overseeing the public service of supplying and storing natural gas.
This agency will be tasked with ensuring a reliable and competitive supply of natural gas to Morocco, promoting transparency, and preventing discriminatory practices in wholesale gas sales.
The agency will be responsible for setting storage capacities in line with the country’s energy policy.
The draft law also outlines detailed provisions governing the transportation of natural gas.
According to the law, transmission network operators will be required to adhere to public service obligations, ensure equal access to gas facilities, and guarantee the safety of operations.
The law mandates the development of a ten-year plan for expanding gas infrastructure in coordination with the energy administration.
Distribution and supply activities will be subject to licensing, with licenses granted for a maximum initial period of ten years.
The pricing of natural gas will be determined by mechanisms set by the energy administration, taking into account wholesale and retail pricing, as well as the costs of transportation, storage, distribution, and network access.
To ensure compliance, the law includes provisions for substantial fines for violations, including penalties for obstructing inspections and for operating without a license.
Energy experts have welcomed the new legislation, saying that regulating the natural gas sector to promote competition, ensure safety, and support the country’s energy transition is crucial.
Amine Bennouna, an energy researcher, told Hespress Ar that the law will help to organize Morocco’s natural gas market, which has been growing in recent years.
The post Morocco unveils draft law to regulate natural gas sector and enhance energy security appeared first on HESPRESS English – Morocco News.
No products in the cart.