Portugal is considering a new electricity interconnection with Morocco due to delays in planned energy projects with France, which have isolated the Iberian Peninsula from the European power grid.
Minister of Environment and Energy Maria da Graça Carvalho stated that Portugal is growing frustrated with stalled infrastructure projects connecting Portugal and Spain to central Europe via France.
“We’re asking for these projects to be sped up,” Carvalho said.
“If this doesn’t happen, we’re keeping the Morocco option open, despite the higher costs due to undersea cables.”
Portugal and Spain jointly warned the European Commission that the Iberian Peninsula is an “energy island,” requesting a meeting with French officials to establish a timeline for completing delayed electricity interconnections.
The urgency follows a widespread blackout in April affecting millions in Portugal and Spain, exposing the region’s energy fragility.
The lack of integration restricts renewable energy deployment and inflates electricity prices, undermining energy security and Europe’s resilience.
Portugal’s consideration of a Moroccan connection highlights North Africa’s growing energy potential and the EU’s willingness to explore alternative partnerships for energy diversification and grid resilience.
Source:https://energynewsafrica.com
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